cheap travel destinations december 2022

18 Best Cheap Places to Travel in December

Written by Shandley McMurray and Joni Sweet Updated Nov 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Let's face it, nothing's cheap in December. Have you ever wanted to escape it all and relax somewhere fantastic, without the pressure of endless gatherings and gift wrapping? We've got good news: December is a fantastic month to find travel deals—as long as you're planning to vacation before Christmas and New Year's .

Airlines and hotel companies want to fill up their seats (and rooms) prior to the holiday rush, so great bargains abound and cheap places to travel in December do exist. From a luxurious beach break to a week spent in the wonderful chaos of Vegas, this list offers an extensive range of vacation spots to suit even the lightest pocketbook.

The earlier you book, the better the price, so get moving! Plan your trip with our list of the best cheap places to travel in December.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

2. belize, central america, 3. orlando, florida, 4. oaxaca, mexico, 5. budapest, hungary, 6. salt lake city, utah, 7. los angeles, california, 8. montego bay and kingston, jamaica, 9. punta cana, dominican republic, 10. st. thomas, u.s. virgin islands, 11. stowe, vermont, 12. banff, alberta, canada, 13. québec city, québec, canada, 14. costa rica, 15. chicago, illinois, 16. arlington, texas, 17. charlotte, north carolina, 18. puerto rico, map of cheap places to travel in december.

Step into the action with a trip to Las Vegas. Known for its unique atmosphere and non-stop buzz, this desert city takes you from New York to Paris, all in one strip. The best part: it's affordable. The cheapest December vacation on this list, Vegas wants you to visit so much that its hotels offer incredible deals.

Whether you've dreamt of staying at the Bellagio Las Vegas , Excalibur Hotel , or MGM Grand Hotel , you're sure to find an affordable rate in the lead-up to Christmas. Book your stay as part of a travel package, and the savings become even more attractive.

While you're here, make time for a walk along The Strip , a trip to the Mob Museum , and a tour of the nearby Grand Canyon .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Las Vegas

Want fun in the sun without a giant price tag? Book a trip to Belize. Do it in December, and you won't Belize the deals (sorry, we had to)! From exploring Mayan ruins to diving in the Great Blue Hole (a massive marine sinkhole) to snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef (the world's second-largest reef behind Australia's Great Barrier Reef ), there's plenty to do in paradise. Not a big swimmer? Visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve for a beautiful hike through pine forests, around waterfalls, and through caves.

Your wallet will welcome the load of extra cash you've saved by timing your trip for this perfectly warm (about 82 degrees), relatively dry time of year. Plus, the pristine beaches, dense jungles, and inviting turquoise waters will help you forget about any money (or other) woes.

Top-Rated Things to Do in Belize
Best Things to Do in San Pedro, Belize

It may not be the most romantic Floridian destination, but Orlando often offers the best deals, especially during the lead up to the holidays. At this time of year, many of Orlando's hotels are close to half price. You'll likely get lucky in the airfare department as well, particularly if you book early.

With all that money you've saved, why not treat the kids (and yourselves) to a pre-holiday visit to Disney World , Universal Studios , or Sea World Orlando ? Not up for insane crowds and listening to "It's a Small World" on repeat? Snorkel in Discovery Cove or visit the sloths in Orlando's Exotic Animal Experience .

Alternatively, take a day trip to some of the beaches near Orlando and soak up a little sun and sand for an afternoon. Or drive an hour east to explore the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It's home to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and interactive exhibits on space missions.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Orlando

This Southern Mexican city has plenty to offer tourists looking for a good deal in December. Enjoy great savings on hotel rooms and at some local venues as well. You're likely heading to Mexico for some sol , so plan to spend quality time poolside.

When you're not soaking up the rays (while wearing sunblock, of course), Oaxaca boasts a ton of things to do to keep you busy and intrigued. Book a bike tour, soak up the history at the ancient ruins in Monte Alban , take a cooking class (who doesn't love Mexican food?), or visit one of the multiple churches in town.

Love museums? Soak up some culture and history at the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca and Museo de Filatelia de Oaxaca, A.C. Then, take to the markets in the city's central square, Plaza de Armas .

Don't miss Noche de los Rábanos (a.k.a. Night of the Radishes) on December 23. This historic festival began in 1897 and includes fireworks, music, dances, great food, and a competition for the best-carved radish.

Bundle up! Budapest's chilly weather keeps most tourists away in December, giving those who don't mind the cooler temperatures (ranging from -1.8 to 3.1°C) a break on both the cost of accommodations and the crowds at major attractions.

With the winter weather comes snowfall, blanketing the historic city and its beautiful sites in a magical dusting of powder. Take a look at photos of Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and Fisherman's Bastion to see just how dreamy Budapest can look in the winter. You can also shop for souvenirs at one of Budapest's Christmas Markets.

When you're ready to warm up, head to one of Budapest's wonderful museums for some indoor sightseeing. You can see works by Old Masters at the Museum of Fine Arts or royal regalia at the Hungarian National Museum . For an even cozier experience, take a dip at a local bathhouse. The famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath has a mix of steamy outdoor and indoor baths that will relax your muscles and leave your body warm for hours.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Budapest

View of downtown Salt Lake City at sunset

Whether you're a ski bum or a culture buff, there are plenty of reasons to visit Utah's capital . The fact that Salt Lake City is a relatively cheap place to visit during December is another plus. Those who plan to stay in the city can save even more cash by dashing about on public transportation. The Utah Transit Authority has numerous helpful options to get you where you need to go. If you want to day trip out to nearby ski resorts in Utah , though, you're best off renting a car, which is also cheaper before the holidays.

Founded by Mormons (Latter Day Saints) in 1847, this capital city boasts an impressive Mormon Temple . Only Mormons are allowed inside, but the rest of us can marvel at the architecture from the sidelines.

All are welcome to visit the nearby Mormon Tabernacle , a large, domed auditorium that seats over 6,500 and boasts a pipe organ with 11,623 pipes. The famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs here. Bonus: it's free. Nature lovers and avid hikers won't want to miss Big Cottonwood Canyon .

Accommodation: Top-Rated Hotels in Salt Lake City

With great weather and relatively low hotel occupancy rates, Los Angeles is another worthwhile spot for an affordable getaway in December. The City of Angels is particularly exciting for sports lovers this time of year, with basketball, hockey, and football all in season. Cheer on the Lakers and the Kings at the Crypto.com Arena , or head to SoFi Stadium to root for the Rams.

Book your flights and hotels early to score the best deal. Then, continue to reap the savings by enjoying some of the top free things to do in Los Angeles . You don't need to spend a dime to gaze through the public telescopes at the Griffith Observatory , marvel at world-class art at The Broad , snap photos in between the outdoor art installation of 202 antique cast iron streetlights at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art , or check out the Japanese architecture in Little Tokyo .

Another fun way to spend time in Los Angeles is hiking. Head to Runyon Canyon Park for steep climbs with amazing views of downtown. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities—this park's proximity to the Hollywood Hills makes it a hot spot for the stars. Other great spots to hike in Los Angeles include Paseo Miramar, Mount Baldy, and Los Leones Trail, where you can catch stunning vistas of the Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Looking for an affordable beach destination? It's time to get jammin' in Jamaica. Both Montego Bay and Kingston are popular vacation spots for those who love to relax. And they both offer great deals in December.

Plonk your body on a beach chair, hike through mountains, snorkel, or chill out by the pool, warm with the knowledge that you saved on both airfare and hotel costs for this trip. Another bonus: with plenty of hotel shuttles and taxis on offer, you won't need to splurge on a rental car.

An all-inclusive may be your cheapest bet if you don't want to blow your budget on food. Plus, you'll have paid all the money upfront, which means you can rest easy and choose anything you'd like from the menu without guilt.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Montego Bay

Punta Cana is the place to be if you're dreaming of somewhere warm, bright, and beautiful. It's also a good deal by Caribbean standards, with affordable all-inclusive packages, and boy does it boast beautiful beaches .

Surrounded by turquoise water and white, sandy beaches, this picture-perfect spot on the eastern side of the Caribbean's Dominican Republic is pretty close to paradise. Adventurers can zipline through the rainforest canopy, windsurf, kiteboard, sail, dive, or snorkel. Not up for all of that? Don't worry. You can golf, ride horses, walk the beach, or float in the pool.

Another plus? December is the time to catch good deals and fab weather. This month offers highs of about 85 degrees and less rain than you'll find from April to November. It's ramping up for high tourist season, so hotel and airfare prices will be on the more affordable end of the spectrum.

Accommodation: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Punta Cana

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer an unforgettable and truly relaxing vacation. Those who visit St. Thomas can enjoy swimming with turtles, snorkeling, or diving in the bright blue ocean, golfing, shopping, and fantastic food—not bad for an island that's only 32 square miles.

This destination offers everything from luxury resorts to basic hotels and bed and breakfast lodging. It's easy to find something to fit your budget.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

While some ski resorts in Vermont offer big savings on lift passes at this time of the year due to run closures, Stowe does not. That's the bad news. Now for the upside: they don't have to because they get more snow than most resorts in December and have more runs open for you to ski. If you book lift passes online at least seven days in advance, you'll save money no matter when you plan to come.

So, what's making this a cheap holiday, you ask? The savings come in the form of hotel deals. Rooms in early to mid-December can be over $100 cheaper a night, which leaves you with plenty left over for shopping or lift tickets.

While you're still soaking up the high from saving your hard-earned cash, take time out to revel in the beauty that is Stowe. It's been dubbed one of the most beautiful small towns in Vermont for a reason, after all!

Non-skiers will love the spa amenities found in many of the resorts, and the town's shopping and restaurants are first-class. In addition to the unbeatable skiing and snowboarding, activity seekers can enjoy indoor rock-climbing at Stowe Mountain Resort or ice-skating at Spruce Peak Village .

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Banff truly shines during its best season: winter. From world-class skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, curling, and sledding, there's no lack of outdoor activities in this spectacular village.

Those who crave adventure won't want to miss the Johnston Canyon Icewalk . Conditions can be slippery and dangerous, so it's safest to book a guide. Want to relax? Book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy meadows or bathe in the Banff Hot Springs .

Skiing at Banff is expensive, no matter when you do it. That said, the longer you ski, the more deals you get, especially in early to mid-December. If you book a "Stay and Ski" package, you'll notice great savings, including cheaper room rates and discounted lift tickets at three resorts: Banff Sunshine , Lake Louise Ski Resort , and Mount Norquay . Banff loves early birds, so the sooner you book, the better the savings. Same goes for your airfare.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Banff National Park

The Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City during winter

July is the best month to visit Québec City for those who don't mind footing a hefty bill at hotels and restaurants, and elbowing their way through crowds of people searching for the city's best poutine. Traveling to this lovely Canadian gem in December, though, is magical and comparatively cheap.

This being Québec, you're pretty much guaranteed a dusting of snow or, more likely, a large dump that casts the historic buildings and parks in an enchanted light. Visit a German Christmas market at Le Grand Marché or another in Vieux-Québec . Traipse through festively adorned streets so European, you'll forget you're in Canada. Rue de Petit Champlain in particular begs to be photographed.

While you're in town, toboggan down Au 1884 , a giant sledding run thought to be the oldest attraction in Québec City. It lies beside North America's most photographed hotel, the Fairmont Le Chateâu Frontenac . Booking this iconic hotel around Christmas is the most expensive time to stay. Choosing a room during the first two weeks of December, on the other hand, will cut your price by at least half. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railroad company in 1892, this lavish building offers remarkable views of the Saint Lawrence River.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Québec City

Rio Celeste Waterfall in Volcan Tenorio National Park

December is a great time to visit Costa Rica if you're looking for a bargain and ideal beach weather. This month marks the tail end of the rainy season, welcoming a refreshing break from the humidity that plagued the area for many months before. The temperature highs at this time hover around the 77 degree mark, perfect for adventuring through the jungle, ziplining, or lounging on some of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches .

While some roads may be closed off and on due to residue from the rainy season, visitors usually experience dry skies at this time of year. They are also privy to competitive hotel and restaurant rates compared to other travelers who either don't want to risk the chance of rain by visiting in early December, or are hoping to travel for the holidays.

Speaking of holidays, the Christmas/New Year's season is one of the most popular (and expensive) times to visit Costa Rica. Some hotels book up months in advance, so those planning to stay over the holiday need to plan well in advance and be prepared to foot a pretty substantial bill.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Winter is one of the cheapest times to travel to Chicago. As long as you avoid visiting during the Christmas holidays, you'll be in for some serious savings. Hotel rates drop dramatically once the barometer begins to plummet, and early December visitors, in particular, can notice a more budget-friendly bill at the end of their stay.

While frigid temps can at times make visiting Chicago's best parks a bit challenging, winter guests to the windy city can enjoy plenty of indoor attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago boasts a vast collection of historic and modern masterpieces, while a trip to the Alder Planetarium will help you get closer to the world beyond. The Museum of Science and Industry is another must-see that features multiple hands-on exhibits.

Plus, you'll have the chance to witness some of the festive charm that makes spending the holidays in Chicago an enjoyable experience. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival sets off at the end of November but lasts through the holiday season. December travelers can also take a twirl around the ice at Millennium Park .

26 Cheap destinations in 2023 with great weather in December

December is an interesting and unusual month for choosing holiday destinations. Many of the world’s favorite tropical beach areas and cities have the best weather of the year in December, but because most people can only take that last week of the month off work, the prices from one week to the next can be vastly different. The first two weeks of December are some of the cheapest weeks of the year in most of the places listed below, while the last week of the year is often literally the most expensive week of the year. In other words, if you can go in early December you can save a fortune or stay in a much nicer place than if you go for Christmas week.

We have a separate list of cheap and warm places to spend Christmas and New Years and there are similarities with the list below, but the prices are more in line with what you might expect to pay. On the other hand, if you can do a trip early in the month of December, you’ll get basically the same weather and the hotels (and flights) will be half the price. The important thing is to book early if you are going over the big holidays.

This article was updated in July, 2023.

Important December 2023 holidays

December 2 and 3 – National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates (major public holiday)
December 6 – St. Nicholas’ Eve and Day (major public holiday in many European countries)
December 8 – Feast of the Immaculate Conception (public holiday in many Catholic countries)
December 10 – Constitution Day in Thailand (major public holiday with celebrations on 12-Dec)
December 24, 25 – Christmas Eve and Day (major public holiday)
December 26 – St. Stephen’s Day and Boxing Day (major public holidays in many countries)
December 31 – New Year’s Eve (major public holiday, celebrations)

New video of this article

The americas.

If you are looking to save money you’ll find that the first week of December will be many times cheaper than the last week of December in the Caribbean and most other places on this list.

The Caribbean

If you are mainly looking for a place to relax on the beach and take a couple boat trips or water sports, you might consider just booking at an all-inclusive resort. There are hundreds of them in the Caribbean and they have to compete for guests by offering prices that can seem suspiciously low, but most of them actually deliver what they promise for those low rates.

17 Cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive destinations
32 Caribbean destinations from cheapest to most expensive

Cancun, Mexico

December avg high: 83°F/28°C
December avg low: 70°F/21°C
December avg precip: 3.8″/9.5cm

When planning a trip to Cancun it’s important to choose the best area for your style. Cancun itself is mainly a long L-shaped strip of resort hotels and timeshares along a beach, with very few other restaurants or shops between them. If you want to stay in your resort the whole time, Cancun itself is a good choice. But about an hour south of Cancun by shuttle you can be in Playa del Carmen , which is an actual fun tourist town filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. If you want to sample different things on your trip, Playa del Carmen is a better choice. The island of Cozumel is just across the water from Playa del Carmen and it’s kind of a hybrid of the other two. And Tulum is a bit south of those and it’s a smaller and more artsy town that is gaining in popularity in recent years. All of these choices are served by the Cancun airport and are easy to reach from there.

You might also consider getting a Cancun Pass for your trip. It bundles a bunch of expensive attractions into one moderate price. It’s worth a look because some of the attractions are amazing and most people aren’t even aware of them.

>>>New: Guide to choosing where to stay in the Cancun area

3-star hotels from: US$67 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$139 per night for two people

>> Cancun prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cancun resort and package deals

Where to find the cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive resorts

In this new video below I’ll explain exactly how and where to find the cheapest all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean that are really good.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

December avg high: 84°F/29°C
December avg low: 73°F/23°C
December avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

Unsurprisingly, the end of December is the beginning of the peak season for resort prices, so those who are able to come earlier in the month will be getting better deals. Still, the all-inclusive resorts are locked in heavy competition all year so this area can be a great deal compared to the alternatives, even in high season. If you are looking for where to go in December for an all-inclusive beach holiday, this is your best option for most people. Punta Cana is also on the list of our best Caribbean destinations for families with kids , by the way.

3-star hotels from: US$48 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$91 per night for two people

>> Check current Punta Cana resort and package deals

Montego Bay, Jamaica

December avg high: 85°F/29°C
December avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

Montego Bay’s busy airport has cheap flights from most major hubs including many in Europe, so it’s one of the easier places to reach as well. If Montego Bay itself doesn’t sound perfect then you might instead consider Negril or Ocho Rios , both of which are about 90 minutes from the same airport and each has a different feel. Two of our 11 best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the entire Caribbean are in Jamaica, and one is near the Montego Bay Airport so it’s easy to reach.

It’s worth noting a couple more points about Jamaica if you are considering a visit. On a positive note, many people enjoy the fact that it’s a place where all of the locals (and therefore the hotel staff) speak English. In Mexico and the DR you’ll find that only the key hotel employees can speak English very well. On the other hand, Jamaica has a pretty bad reputation for aggressive vendors on beaches and sometimes even in shops. If that bothers you then Jamaica will probably be more annoying than most other places in the Caribbean.

3-star hotels from: US$83 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$209 per night for two people

>> Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

December avg high: 86°F/30°C
December avg low: 64°F/18°C
December avg precip: 0.9″/2.3cm

The December weather is pretty much perfect and dry, and airfares and hotel rates are very reasonable up until Christmas itself. If you are in California you might also consider Los Cabos (see below), although Puerto Vallarta is more interesting and usually cheaper as well. This is definitely one of the best places to go in December if you are anywhere near the Pacific Ocean.

It’s worth noting that while the hotel prices listed below are real, those are not typical of larger chain hotels on the beach. If you want to stay in, say, a Marriott on the beach in Puerto Vallarta, you are going to be paying much closer to US$200 per night for two people if not more.

3-star hotels from: US$35 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$64 per night for two people

>> Puerto Vallarta prices and travel tips >>> Check current Puerto Vallarta resort and package deals

Mexico City, Mexico

December avg high: 69°F/21°C
December avg low: 44°F/7°C
December avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

As Christmas approaches the city will fill up much more, so if you can go early in the month you’ll be much better off. But even if you can’t go before the last week of the month you’ll still find Mexico City to be a tremendous bargain compared to pretty much anywhere else in North America. It’s a great shopping destination, and not just for goofy souvenirs, so that’s something to think about as well.

3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>> Mexico City prices and travel tips >>> Check current Mexico City hotel and package deals

Los Cabos, Mexico

December avg high: 80°F/27°C
December avg low: 58°F/15°C
December avg precip: 0.6″/1.4cm

Los Cabos is the name for the whole area, but it’s really two towns that are also quite different. Cabo San Lucas is in the west and it’s built around the large and somewhat glamorous marina. This is also where you’ll find the famous Land’s End arch that is in every photo of Cabo. About 30 minutes away by car to the east is San José del Cabo , which has a newer and more modern town center and is close to the airport. There are also really nice beach resorts stretching along the coast between the two towns, so if you don’t want to go bar hopping or do much shopping, you might be better booking at one of the stand-alone resorts in between.

3-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$163 per night for two people

>>> Check current Cabo resort and package deals

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

December avg high: 91°F/33°C
December avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

Tamarindo and Smara are two of the most popular beach areas, but there are other good choices in the area as well. This part of Costa Rica is known for large chain resorts on the beach, and the 4-star resorts can be pricey, while the more traditional 3-star hotels are still very reasonable. Costa Rica is obviously one of the hot countries in December in both temperature and popularity, so book early. Each of the beach towns also has smaller and cheaper family-run hotels that also have the advantage that you can try different local restaurants for every meal. They are very different experiences and you probably know which one suits you better.

3-star hotels from: US$65 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$179 per night for two people

>> Guanacaste prices and travel tips >>> Check current San Jose hotel and package deals

Cartagena, Colombia

December avg low: 76°F/24°C
December avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm

Cartagena is becoming a very popular winter beach destination for people from North America, and it’s still a fantastic bargain compared to better known places, but it might not stay that way forever. As Colombia gets more popular (and as long as it stays safe) then prices should keep going up at these resort towns. The gorgeous and historic walled city in Cartagena makes for a great cultural and culinary visit, and there are nice beaches just a few blocks away. Very few tropical destinations have both in one place.

3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$119 per night for two people

>> Cartagena prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cartagena hotel and package deals

December avg high: 76°F/24°C
December avg low: 66°F/19°C
December avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

The food, including its famous ceviche dishes, is a particular highlight here, and the tourist district of Miraflores is packed with interesting and cheap restaurants. Basic and cheap hotels are in the same neighborhood, so it’s a better alternative to the historic center of Lima for most people. By the way, the rainy season in Cusco starts in December, so the trails can sometimes be cut off, although many people go anyway.

3-star hotels from: US$52 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$83 per night for two people

>> Lima prices and travel tips >>> Check prices on Peru hotels and resorts

Santiago, Chile

December avg low: 54°F/12°C
December avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

It’s true that Santiago is not considered a top-flight destination by everyone, but it’s a fantastic base for a trip involving several stops in Chile, especially this time of year. There’s the Colonial town of Valparaiso and many adventure towns in the mountains, so you can get a bit of everything in at very reasonable prices.

4-star hotels from: US$97 per night for two people

>> Santiago prices and travel tips >>> Check prices on Chile hotels and resorts

Buenos Aires, Argentina

December avg low: 65°F/18°C
December avg precip: 4.1″/10.3cm

Hotel prices definitely go up in around Christmas so it’s best to come early in the month if that’s possible, but it’s still a pretty good bargain even during the peak weeks. Book early if you can because the better and cheaper hotels will fill up first, of course. Also consider a side trip to the Mendoza wine region , Patagonia, or the amazing water falls of Iguazu.

In 2023 the Argentine peso continues to drop and local inflation is very high, but the entire country remains incredibly cheap for foreigners. Better still, if you read up on the “blue dollar” and how to bring US dollars and exchange them in Argentina for the current rate, everything will cost about half what it would otherwise. If this is the first you are hearing of it you probably think it sounds very shady or like a scam, but it’s very normal in Argentina where they are desperate to get currencies that don’t evaporate like their peso does for the last decade or so.

3-star hotels from: US$33 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$52 per night for two people

>> Buenos Aires prices and travel tips >>> Check current Buenos Aires hotel and package deals

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

December avg high: 88°F/31°C
December avg low: 72°F/22°C
December avg precip: 5.1″/12.8cm

As with most on this list, hotels get very full and more expensive just before the Christmas holidays, so it’s better to come early in the month if possible. That way you’ll have your pick of places at some surprisingly good room rates, even at some high-end places on the famous beaches. If you are coming during Christmas then book a hotel NOW because they’ll be full and will keep getting more expensive the longer you wait.

Brazil was one of the more expensive countries in Latin America as of a few years ago, but its currency has dropped and stayed lower so it’s quite a bargain again for foreign visitors.

4-star hotels from: US$67 per night for two people

>>> Rio de Janeiro prices and travel tips >>> Check current Rio de Janeiro hotel and package deals

From December through February there are literally no European cities that could qualify as having “great weather,” except for the Canary Islands, which is listed below. So during the winter Europe is all about cultural tourism, and lower hotel prices make it especially appealing for those who like to stretch their travel budgets and avoid crowds at the same time.

If you are thinking about a city break instead you should check out our recommended cheap London hotels , our recommended cheap Paris hotels , and our recommended cheap Amsterdam hotels , recommended cheap Rome hotels , recommended cheap Prague hotels , and recommended cheap Berlin hotels .

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

December avg high: 71°F/22°C
December avg low: 61°F/16°C
December avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

Even if you can’t sunbathe, the weather is still reliably pleasant all the time, with almost no rain. Weekly and monthly apartment rentals here are very popular, but there are plenty of hotels and hundreds of restaurants for those coming for shorter periods. If you want to be with the most English speakers you’ll want to focus on the southwest area of the island around Los Cristianos and Playa de la America.

It’s also worth mentioning that Tenerife is only one of the Canary Islands and there are sometimes even better deals on the others including Gran Canary, Lanzarote, and La Palma. They are usually all shown together when searching ‘Canary Islands’ for hotels, but in Europe they are usually listed separately so you have to check each of them out on your own.

3-star hotels from: US$58 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$79 per night for two people

>>> Tenerife prices and travel tips >>> Check current Tenerife hotel deals

December is ideal in much of Africa, though Morocco might be a bit too cool by this time. The list below is quite incomplete due to how few cities we cover in the region.

Cairo, Egypt

December avg high: 68°F/20°C
December avg low: 50°F/10°C

Fortunately, it rarely rains at all in Cairo, so even though December is one of the wetter months, that means nothing and you are unlikely to see even a drop of rain. Hotel prices do reach their peak in Cairo starting late in December, so it’s best to go early in the month if possible. Egypt is definitely one of the cheapest places to travel in December, and the weather is surprisingly nice as well.

3-star hotels from: US$36 per night for two people

>> Cairo prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cairo hotel deals

Cape Town, South Africa

December avg high: 77°F/25°C
December avg low: 59°F/15°C
December avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

This is a fairly cheap city compared to Europe or North America, so at least bargains are not hard to find on the ground once you get there. The flights are of course long and usually a bit expensive, so the whole trip will add up for sure. Hotels will be cheaper in early December than during Christmas week, of course.

>>> Cape Town prices and travel tips >>> Check Cape Town hotel deals

Middle East

December is cool and even a bit rainy in most of the Middle East. An exception is Dubai and Abu Dhabi , which both have perfect sunny weather.

December avg high: 79°F/26°C
December avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

The December weather is actually warm enough to sit on the beach, but most people who come to Dubai tend to just relax and do a lot of shopping at one of the enormous and modern malls here. The restaurant scene is very interesting as well, and you can eat cheaply if you follow the local workers, or go to one of the hotel restaurants and get world-class cuisine.

>>> Dubai prices and travel tips >>> Check current Dubai hotel deals

December is an ideal month in most of Southeast Asia, except for much of the coast of Vietnam, which gets rain this month. Crowds, of course, get big just before Christmas, and hotel prices go up accordingly. It’s too cold in China, Korea, and Japan to make this list.

For a longer list see our best December destinations in Asia choices , which includes some of these but quite a few more.

Boracay Island, Philippines

December average high: 82°F/28°C
December average low: 75°F/24°C
December avg precip: 7.1″/17.8cm

If you are looking for something far less developed than Phuket or any other Thai island, Boracay might be for you. This gorgeous strip of sand is a bit out of the way, but partly because of that it still feels somewhat undiscovered. You’ll spend your days relaxing along White Beach or walking up and down the sandy paths that serve as the only real form of transport for most people. Many visitors come every year, and quite a few of those never seem to leave.

The hotel prices here might seem a bit high for Asia at first glance, but that’s because the island is long and thin so almost every hotel is literally on the beach or within a block or maybe two of it. The value is very good and food is a bargain here as well.

3-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>> Boracay prices and travel tips >>> Check Boracay resort deals

Bangkok, Thailand

December avg low: 69°F/21°C
December avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

There’s a massive range of quality and prices when it comes to hotels in Bangkok, and the city is enormous as well, so you really want to do your research for this place. Most people are happier paying a bit more to stay near the river and all the tourist attractions, or even in the infamous Khosan Road backpacker district, which is cheap and fun, if tacky. If you like to shop then Bangkok is a slice of heaven. There are close to 15 large malls in the Siam Square area, which is also central and convenient since the elevated metro system cuts right through it.

3-star hotels from: US$38 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$48 per night for two people

>> Bangkok prices and travel tips >>> Check current Bangkok hotel deals

Phuket, Thailand

December avg low: 75°F/24°C
December avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

The prices given here are on the low side, especially during the winter season, so you are going to pay more unless you are willing to stay in one of the simple hotels in Phuket Town. It’s not a beach resort, but it’s a fun place itself, cheaper than the beaches, and allows an easy way to cheaply visit multiple beaches during a visit. My favorite beaches are Kata and Karon beach, which are both a bit south of the adult-oriented Patong Beach area.

3-star hotels from: US$45 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$62 per night for two people

>> Phuket prices and travel tips >>> Check Phuket hotel and resort promotions

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Hotels in Chiang Mai are among the world’s greatest travel bargains, with decent private rooms available for under US$15 per night in the city center. Pay more and you get a lot more, so it’s fun to feel like a big shot in a US$30 room that is almost like a suite. It gets crowded around Christmas so prepare for that and book early.

3-star hotels from: US$27 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people

>> Chiang Mai prices and travel tips >>> Check current Chiang Mai hotel deals

December avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

Not surprisingly, the weeks around Christmas and New Years are literally the busiest of the year in Goa, so either book a hotel way in advance or be flexible once you arrive. Some towns, like Calungute, are lined with package hotels that fill up completely, but other towns, like Anjuna and Vagator, are usually booked in person or by email, so you can often find a place just walking around. If you are in the mood to tour around, Mumbai has great weather during December, and Delhi has warm days but cool evenings this time of year. Goa has some of the best beaches in December in all of Asia, so give this one a serious look.

>> Goa prices and travel tips >>> Check current Goa hotel deals

Luang Prabang, Laos

December avg low: 58°F/14°C

Hotel prices definitely jump up around Christmas, so this is yet another place where you should come in the first half of the month if possible. Most people visit along with a trip to Bangkok and Siem Reap, but other cities in Laos are worth a stop as well, especially Vang Vieng (if you are a backpacker type) and Vientiane.

3-star hotels from: US$54 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people

>> Luang Prabang prices and travel tips >>> Check current Luang Prabang hotel deals

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Those temples are all outdoor for the most part, so cooler and dryer conditions mean you can spend more time touring the temples and still being comfortable. Almost any other month of the year and you’ll be better off going back to your hotel for a few hours in the afternoon, but in December you can carry on all day if you like. The town of Siem Reap is a delight in itself, but of course it fills up near Christmas.

4-star hotels from: US$54 per night for two people

>> Siem Reap prices and travel tips >>> Check current Siem Reap hotel deals

Hanoi, Vietnam

December avg low: 60°F/16°C

Hanoi is actually one of the cheapest tourist cities in the world according to our Backpacker Index, and that’s partly due to beer and museums being incredibly cheap. In reality, you’ll want to spend more money than the minimum because everything is great value. There are hundreds of family-run hotels with 10 to 20 rooms and a breakfast room in the basement serving surprisingly great food included in the rate. They tend to be spotless and well run, so it could be worth skipping a chain hotel and saving some money in the process.

3-star hotels from: US$29 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$65 per night for two people

>> Hanoi prices and travel tips >>> Check current Hanoi hotel deals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

December avg high: 87°F/31°C
December avg low: 71°F/22°C
December avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm

HCMC is not quite as cheap as Hanoi, and it’s not as nice to look at either, but it’s definitely worth a visit for a combination of history and culture. This is a huge and sprawling city so it’s important to choose the location of your hotel carefully. During Christmas things do fill up and prices go up as well, so book early if possible.

3-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people
4-star hotels from: US$75 per night for two people

>>> Ho Chi Minh City prices and travel tips >>> Check current Ho Chi Minh City hotel deals

Auckland, New Zealand

December average high: 71°F/22°C
December average low: 57°F/14°C
December avg precip: 3.6″/9.0cm

You can also rent a car and drive to the same places where you can stay in cabins in holiday parks/campgrounds, and small hotels and guest houses are reasonably priced as well. But renting a campervan is the classic way to see New Zealand and it can be surprisingly cheap since you’ll only be paying a small fee to park for the night in the abundant campgrounds. You’ll also be cooking many of your own meals, which is helpful because New Zealand doesn’t have many cheap restaurants or take out joints outside of the bigger cities. Queenstown on the South Island is the adventure sports capital of New Zealand and not to be missed. Rotorua on the North Island is also very much worth a stop.

4-star hotels from: US$81 per night for two people

>>> Auckland prices and travel tips

26 Cheap destinations in 2023 with great weather in December " --> All Comments

family of 4 want to travel from Seattle to somewhere we can enjoy beach and city it can be a 2center destination what do you suggest we want to travel in mid december 2024Comment*

From Seattle and especially if you’d like at least a bit of a city in addition to a beach, I’d head for Puerto Vallarta. The historic center has a lot of great restaurants and interesting sights and things going on, and the nearby beaches are great. Los Cabos is another option, but from your short message I’d just go to Puerto Vallarta. I hope that helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

To celebrate his High School Gaduation, the hope is a father/son trip during his winter break from college ( 7 days between 16 Dec – 23 Dec). I’m a 100% disabled vet on a budget, so your counsel is most welcome. Thanks!

I’ll be happy to help and I’m sure we can find some great options for you. But first I’ll need to know your starting location and whether you’d like a beach, a city, or something else? If you are starting in the US I’d probably look at Mexico first, but it kind of depends on which city you’d start in. -Roger

Comment* I’m leaving from DFW or Lovefield. Yes I love beaches. We are trying to travel in December 8 to the December 11

If you are looking for great weather and an affordable beach I’d recommend Cancun that time of year. There’s lots more information on my article about Caribbean islands for all-inclusive resorts from cheapest to most expensive , including a video I just uploaded that explains it all. -Roger

Diana, NZ has perfect traveling weather in December, however bear in mind that it is the end of our academic year early/mid December and school goes back in February. This is a peak time of travel for families. But definitely a great time to visit 🙂

I read the questions and responses.

Do you still recommend New Zealand for December? Have your recommendations changed since 2014? Do you have blog? Where can I find more of your articles? I’m planning on a two week trip in December 2019 from Miami, FL. Thank you Diana

Yes, and interestingly enough, I just added that New Zealand thing to this article yesterday (5-August) so that is all fresh advice. I’ve added and changed quite a few entries on these lists and I update them each year, so everything is current. This IS my blog actually. So if you go to the homepage you’ll see links to many articles that contain links to many more articles and I’ve written almost all of them.

I lived in Miami myself a few years ago (in Midtown) and I’m still a big fan. New Zealand is almost the other side of the world so it wouldn’t be fast or cheap to get there, but it’s really lovely and it can be done at a reasonable price once you get there, especially if you focus on nature and the camping and RV scene. I’m happy to help if you have other questions. -Roger

This is a great blog! Stumbled upon it 2 hours ago and found it very informative. (I’ve spent 2 hours reading everything:)). My husband and I travel every year around the last 2 weeks of December. We’re based in Bangalore, India. We did Cambodia & Vietnam last year and really liked it there. This year we’ve really been wanting to go to Turkey. We’re ok to handle 8-10 degree weather. However, still debating if it’s a good time to go considering rains, availability of attractions etc. We’re very interested in culture, history, food and people. It would be great to know if you think December might be a good time to do Turkey? Thanks

Thank you so much for the kind words and I’m always happy to hear that people find this information useful. As far as Turkey in December is concerned, I wouldn’t recommend it. I actually lived in a small town near Antalya on the Mediterranean for a bit over a year and I was surprised by the fact that almost everything closed down around 1-November and didn’t start opening again until March or April. Actually, I think Istanbul would still be enjoyable in December and so would Bodrum or any of the other larger cities including Antalya. But anywhere on the coast will be a ghost town and I’m pretty sure that Cappadocia would also be mostly shut for the winter. Ephesus probably stays open, but similar to Cappadocia, the attractions are all outdoors and they can get pretty fierce rainstorms in winter.

So long story short, if you want to visit Istanbul and perhaps another city, I think December could be okay. But for almost anywhere else in Turkey I just don’t think it’s worth it. Fortunately there are plenty of other places to choose from and hopefully you can find time for Turkey another time of the year. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

I am travelling from Nigeria looking to take a break this december with my brother. I am looking for a cheap destination, rich in activities and shopping (apparal). Any suggestions please?

For a cheap destination in December that has great clothes shopping opportunities I can only think of two really good options. The closer of the two is Dubai . I’m not sure if you’ve been there before, but it has some of the best shopping in the world with every store imaginable and very good prices because duties and taxes are low. In spite of its reputation, Dubai can actually be visited quite cheaply if that is important. It’s famous for expensive hotels, but it’s got hundreds of more affordable hotels that can be pretty nice.

The farther, and cheaper, option is Bangkok . A flight would cost more and you might end up having to change planes in Dubai on your way, but once you get there you can find nice hotels starting around US$25 per night, although paying more for a better place is probably worth it. The whole central area of Bangkok around what is called Siam Square is surrounded by about 15 or 20 large shopping malls, many of which focus on clothing. It’s mostly chain stores and prices are good, although it’s not like they are much different from Europe except taxes are a bit lower. You can get locally made clothes at local markets for much lower prices than the chain stores in the malls. Also, Bangkok is a really fun city with plenty to see and do. For what it’s worth, alcohol is much cheaper in Bangkok than in Dubai, and much easier to get as well. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi.. We(2adults) are planning a trip by mid december(after15th). Can you suggest me some good places? My starting point is Cochin International Airport,Kerala.

December is a great month in most parts of southern Asia, so starting in India I would focus there. Here’s an article about the 16 best Asia destinations in December that should help more than the one above. If none of those are interesting you’ll need to give me more details about what you are looking for. -Roger

Hi…I want to travel in December(after 15th) for a month somewhere where it will be cheap to travel around the country. I am interested in beaches and scenic beauty and also places with a history like Machu Pichu and Greece. Can you recommend a good place?

I’ll be happy to try to help, but I’d really need to know your starting point because there are cheap places in different corners of the world, and it’s not worth flying halfway around the world to try to save US$20 per day. In mid December through January for beaches you should consider Thailand and perhaps also Vietnam. I’ll give you more information once I know where you are starting from. -Roger

Hi Roger, Appreciate you on your excellent and informative blog.

I am from India and I would be celebrating my 10th wedding anniversary in 2nd week of december 2018. We are family of four (2 adults and 2 kids aged 3 and 7) planning for a 5-7 days trip. Can you please suggest some good places where I can visit and also my kids feel involved too.

Regards, Bharth

If you’ve got 5 to 7 days and are starting in India I don’t think you want to fly halfway around the world, so it’s probably best to go somewhere between Dubai and Bali. Dubai has cheap flights from most places and it’s very family oriented with large play parks inside shopping malls and that sort of thing. You could get an apartment there in one of the many apartment-hotels for a reasonable price, and the December weather should be pretty good as well.

Another option is Thailand, and Phuket has the most family-friendly beach areas. You could get a family hotel room at one of the many beach resorts that has a Kids Club in addition to swimming pools and the beach itself. Those are my top suggestions for a family trip that is also suitable for an anniversary. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi Roger, Appreciate your detailed and helpful input on all travel destinations. I’m planning to go in the first two weeks of December to Hawaii from Canada. Family of 4 (kids 3 and 9). Can’t figure out which island of 4 to choose. Looking for the best not crowded post-card looking beach, prefer to stay in small resort/condo. Would like to drive around island to see the culture. Don’t want to stay in big hotel in Honolulu. Any input on weather or islands is greatly appreciated.

This is a really interesting question. If you want to avoid crowds then you have already figured out that it’s best to avoid Honolulu and I would avoid Oahu completely. The Big Island is very interesting because of the volcano and some of the other scenery, but the most beautiful islands are Maui and Kauai. I haven’t made it to Kauai yet, but everyone I know has been there and they swear it’s the most photogenic, which looks right based on the photos I’ve seen. Maui is also really gorgeous and all islands other than Oahu are uncrowded even in high season. I drove all over Maui in a rental car and loved it and I don’t think there is as much to see on Kauai. So either of those will be great choices and the weather should be almost perfect in December with warm (but not scorching) temperatures and almost no rain. Have a great trip and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Protect Your Trip »

Best cheap winter vacations.

Some destinations see prices skyrocket in winter, but U.S. News ensures that your dollars will stretch further with this list of the best cheap winter vacations. Our editors considered user votes in addition to factors like the cost and quality of accommodations, dining and attractions to narrow down the destinations with the best value – and weather – for a winter getaway. Help us determine next year's list by voting for your favorite winter destinations below.

Turks & Caicos

Quebec city, san miguel de allende, puerto rico, big sky, mt.

Hotels in Mérida, the capital of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, can cost as little as $50 per night in winter, so you'll have plenty of cash to indulge in the city's offerings. Dive far back into Mérida's history while visiting El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida and the nearby Dzibilchaltún ruins, both of which explore local Mayan history for inexpensive admission fees. Meanwhile, in the heart of the city, you'll find influence from Spanish conquerors at the free Catedral de Mérida. Don't forget to explore Mérida's food scene at one of its markets or restaurants.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a popular vacation spot for a reason: Here, you'll find incomparable scenery, glistening white sand and turquoise water. When you're done basking on the beach, grab some snorkeling gear and head to the water; you'll discover an impressive barrier reef by these Caribbean islands that is ripe for exploration. To save money on your island getaway, skip staying at a luxury resort and instead reserve a vacation rental or a room at a smaller hotel. Save even more money by avoiding accommodations on Providenciales, where the country's priciest lodging options are located.

It's not hard to plan a cheap tropical vacation in Jamaica. Save money while still enjoying Jamaica's warm winter weather in the low 80s by staying at an all-inclusive resort that includes extras like water sports equipment and private beach access in their base fare. You can find even more deals on accommodations and airfare if you book a vacation package or time your trip for early winter before the snowbirds arrive. With the money you save, book a tour to see one of Jamaica's natural wonders, like Dunn's River Falls or the Blue Hole.

Located on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum's status as a major tourist destination comes as no surprise. Its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and fascinating Mayan ruins draw travelers in droves, and winter's pleasant temperatures in the low 80s only add to its appeal. But while this tropical paradise offers plenty of room for luxury, it's possible to stick to a budget. Beyond the favorable exchange rate ($1 equals about $18 Mexican pesos), you can also save money by dining in Tulum Pueblo and choosing accommodations away from the beach.

Those in search of a well-rounded winter getaway should travel to Taos, New Mexico. History buffs can spend their trip strolling through Taos Plaza or learning about Taos Pueblo, an adobe village that has been inhabited by the Taos Indian Tribe for more than 1,000 years. Meanwhile, skiers can zip down the slopes at Taos Ski Valley (save money by looking for winter packages and purchasing your tickets before the peak ski season begins). When travelers need to relax, they can head to Manby or Black Rock hot springs to rejuvenate in the naturally warm (and free) waters.

The cobblestone streets will probably be covered in snow, but that shouldn't discourage you from exploring neighborhoods like Old Québec and Quartier Petit Champlain. The Canadian city celebrates its way through the frigid temperatures with free or low-cost events and festivals that last from Christmastime to Carnaval in February. When you need to warm up, explore the splendid interiors of Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, both of which offer free entry.

It's no secret that Lake Tahoe is a great wintertime travel destination. This lake that straddles the California-Nevada border is known for its premier cold-weather activities, including cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating and snowshoeing. To save some coin during your trip, plan on booking your getaway early and staying at one of the lake's ski resorts. Though resorts can get pricey at times, they often offer vacation packages or multinight discounts to help you cut costs.

A winter vacation in San Miguel de Allende should include time spent exploring the city's markets and cultural institutions, including the Fábrica La Aurora, a textile mill-turned-art-museum and shop. Both El Jardín, the city's main plaza, and Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, an ornate church, are additional must-see sights that won't cost you a dime to enjoy. You'll also want to sample the vast foodie scene: This Mexican city offers everything from fine dining to cheap (but delectable) food truck meals.

Though the Southwest brings to mind deserts with scorching temperatures, Santa Fe, New Mexico, conveniently sits close to several different ski resorts. Not only can you schuss the slopes in 40-degree weather, but you can also spend less on lift tickets here than you would in more popular ski destinations. Back in Santa Fe, you can admire art at Canyon Road's 80-plus galleries or stroll through Santa Fe Plaza without spending a cent. If you time your visit for late February, you can also score deals on dining out during Santa Fe's Restaurant Week.

If all you dream about for a winter vacation is escaping to a tranquil Mexican beach, Cozumel is your answer. Turquoise water, great snorkeling and warm weather (think: average highs sit in the mid-80s) attract travelers in droves. For lodging, skip the expensive resorts and opt for a bed-and-breakfast or a vacation rental. Use the money you save on accommodations to visit Cozumel's parks, including Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park and Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, which both charge modest entrance fees.

Puerto Rico's warm winter temperatures (highs consistently sit in the low 80s) and robust calendar of free festivals and events make it an appealing choice for a cheap winter getaway. Although the winter months bring an influx of tourists to this U.S. territory's sandy shores – raising hotel and airfare prices – it is still possible to achieve an affordable vacation as long as you plan far enough in advance. Luckily, many of Puerto Rico's must-do activities are free, including hiking through El Yunque National Forest and exploring historic Old San Juan.

Boasting more than 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, Big Sky, Montana, is a winter sports enthusiast's dream. Here, you'll find a healthy mix of slopes for everyone from beginners to experts. While lift tickets will take up a hefty portion of your budget, if you plan early and book in advance, you can score deals on both your accommodations and lift tickets at Big Sky Resort. For even more savings on lift tickets, which cost more when demand is high, visit on weekdays in early December and opt to ski later in the day to cut down on fees for the popular Lone Peak Tram.

Winter in Banff is characterized by snow and skiing. This Canadian destination enjoys excellent skiing conditions with exceptional scenery. What's more, lodging and lift ticket prices are a bargain compared to other ski spots in North America, but you'll need to book them a few months in advance to ensure availability and the best prices. With the money you've saved, you can treat yourself to a sleigh ride or an extra après-ski drink. Though you'll need to purchase a National Park Pass to stay in Banff; this fee also covers access to off-slope wonders like Lake Louise, where you can skate and admire ice sculptures.

Thanks to its location in the Caribbean Sea, Martinique offers ideal weather for travelers seeking a warm respite from chilly winters. Temperatures sit in the 80s throughout winter, so you can spend your days soaking up some sun on Les Salines and Diamant (Diamond) beaches. If you plan on staying in Fort-de-France, the country's capital, book early to ensure you snag affordable accommodations during Martinique's peak tourist season. For additional savings, book a hotel farther inland.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee's wintertime highs sit in the upper 40s and low 50s, meaning you can still take advantage of the town's most popular attraction: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. After entering the national park, which charges a $5 daily parking fee, hike a section of the famous Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion, an outcrop with stunning mountain vistas, or trek the Rainbow Falls Trail for a chance to see the path's namesake falls frozen over. When you need to warm up, head back to town to sample the local moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling Company or Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine's "The Holler" distillery for a small fee.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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20 Cheap Warm-Weather Winter Destinations For December

Winter blues got you down? There's a cure for that. From white-sand beaches to bustling markets and ancient ruins, escaping to a warmer climate during the colder months of the year might just be what the doctor ordered. That said, jetting off to a warmer destination doesn't always mean breaking the bank — especially with a lot of careful planning, scanning flights, and making the most of off-peak rates.

We've compiled a comprehensive list of destinations — from Mexico to Spain — brimming with culture, adventure, and warmth that won't break the bank, even if you're on a budget . So, whether you're dreaming of a Caribbean beach or the historic streets of a European city, there's a destination waiting to help you shed off the winter layers and slip into something a little lighter instead.

In order to gain a general understanding, the flight prices below are estimated for departures from New York City. Keep in mind, however, that ticket and hotel prices can vary unexpectedly. That said, it's recommended to book in advance and compare prices on multiple platforms — such as Google Flights and Google Hotels — before securing a reservation.

1. Antigua and Barbuda

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda are twin islands that wear their history with pride. The preserved forts — remnants of British colonization — stand as a testament to centuries of historical importance. Every corner — from the bustling local markets brimming with handmade crafts and exotic fruits to the narrow streets of harbor towns — tells a story of ages past.

The islands also boast over 365 beaches, ensuring that every day of the year has its unique sandy retreat. While sun-worshippers can kick their feet up and soak up the rays, the more adventurous can try their hand at everything from snorkeling to swimming with stingrays or ziplining. Plus, with temperatures ranging between 73 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit, December provides a perfect balmy backdrop.

A ballpark figure for flight costs ranges from $375 to $700 for a roundtrip. Hotel accommodations — varying from luxury resorts to quaint inns — can average around $124–$326 per night.

2. Cancun, Mexico

Located on Mexico's eastern coast, Cancun is a beachside gem. On one hand, the region's scattered Mayan ruins — like Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — showcase the area's rich past. On the other, its famous beaches and clubs — from Coco Bongo to Mandala Beach — provide the perfect spot for relaxation during the day and lively entertainment at night. Additionally, adventure seekers shouldn't miss the cenotes — natural limestone sinkholes filled with fresh water — that make for a scenic day out.

With an average temperature of roughly 80 degrees Fahrenheit, December is one of the best months to visit Cancun. With warm days, cooler evenings, low humidity, and conveniently outside of the region's hurricane season — you simply can't go wrong.

Hitching a round trip to Cancun can set you back between $250 and $670. In terms of accommodation, you can find hotels from $49–$129 per night. Want to make your money last a little longer? Opt for street food — which costs between $1 and $4 per meal — and make sure you always pay in the local currency (Mexican pesos).

Set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, Jamaica is a tropical haven that promises a peek into the country's cultural melting pot of African and European influences. However, it's the beaches — think Seven Mile Beach and Sandals Montego Bay Beach — that beckon travelers to soak up the sun or indulge in water sports.

With a climate hovering around 82 degrees Fahrenheit in December, Jamaica offers a warm escape. For thrill-seekers, the island has attractions like Dunn's River Falls and cliff-jumping spots such as Rick's Cafe in Negril. Plus, local dishes like jerk chicken and patties aren't just delicious but also pocket-friendly, ranging from $2 to $6.

Considering a flight to Kingston? Budget between $350 and $700 for a round trip, with prices higher around New Year's. As for accommodations, Jamaica's diverse range of lodgings means you can secure a room anywhere from $70 to $185 per night.

Peru offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and culture. Nestled in the Andes, cities like Cusco and Lima balance colonial architecture with indigenous influences, telling stories of a past where empires met empires. Beyond the cities, the Amazon Rainforest is enchanted with its rich biodiversity. However, the real star of any trip to Peru is the legendary Machu Picchu — a testament to the ancient Inca civilization.

December in Peru — especially in destinations like Lima and Mancora— hits a comfortable 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. As for the Amazon region, visitors can expect highs of around 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, in high-altitude areas like Cusco, temperatures range from 45 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. While December also marks the start of the rainy season — ensuring a lush, green landscape — travelers still have plenty of opportunities to explore its many treks, water sports, and jungle escapes.

Flight prices typically fall between $430 and $1,200 for a round trip. Meanwhile, typical hotel prices range from $30 to $150 per night, depending on location and amenities.

5. Seville, Spain

Located in the heart of Andalusia, Seville is a city of passion — from its fierce flamenco rhythms to its intricate Moorish architecture and mouthwatering local dishes. Iconic landmarks like the Alcazar Palace and the Seville Cathedral stand testament to its rich history. Additionally, the Santa Cruz neighborhood, with its narrow alleys and vibrant squares, encapsulates the city's soul.

In December, Seville offers a mild climate, with temperatures hitting 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. For a taste of Spain, tapas bars dotted across the city offer small dishes at around $3 to $8 each. And for sangria lovers, a glass of this wine-based cocktail will set you back roughly $6.

With December being peak season for visitors, direct flights to Seville can range from $450 to $1,000 for a round trip. Accommodation-wise, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $170 for a night's stay in the city's hotels.

6. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

On the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas combines scenic beauty and vibrant nightlife. From its iconic El Arco rock formation to its golden beaches, this destination offers both relaxation and adventure while helping you stay within budget. The marina, lined with luxury yachts and bustling eateries, is the city's pulsating heart.

In December, temperatures reach 81 degrees Fahrenheit — making Los Cabos a sunny escape from the winter chill. As for dining, street tacos can be savored for $1 to $3 each, while dining at a restaurant can cost anywhere from $15 to $25. As for tours and experiences, budget around $35 for a boat trip to El Arco, around $100 to indulge in an Instagram-worthy camel ride, and $90 for an ATV adventure — just to name a few.

Flights to Cabo San Lucas generally fall between $330 and $530 for a round trip. Hotels — depending on their proximity to the beach — can range from $115 to $300 per night.

Vintage cars, pastel-colored buildings, and pulsating salsa rhythms set the scene in Cuba. Coupled with Havana's Old Town colonial architecture and the UNESCO World Heritage site tobacco fields of Viñales, a visit to this magical country feels like stepping back in time.

Visiting Cuba during December means the weather will be pleasantly warm, with temperatures hovering around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. This is also in the middle of the country's dry season, which means unexpected rains won't dampen your plans. For meals on a budget, paladares (home-run restaurants) offer typical dishes — like ropa vieja and arroz con pollo — for $8 to $12. Meanwhile, you can also find plenty of street food for under $1. When it comes to exploring the city streets, almendrones — the country's picturesque vintage cars — are both an experience and a cost-effective mode of transport.

Flights to Havana can be budgeted between $300 and $600 for a roundtrip. For lodgings, consider casas particulares (private homes), where prices range from $20 to $80 per night.

8. Puerto Rico

As an island territory of the U.S., Puerto Rico seamlessly blends Caribbean charm with modern amenities. Old San Juan — with its cobblestone streets and Spanish forts — contrasts with the tropical rainforests of El Yunque — the only tropical forest in the United States — and the bioluminescent bays of Vieques, known as the brightest in the world.

In December, Puerto Rico's temperatures hit around 83 degrees Fahrenheit, transforming the island into a sun-kissed paradise. While the local beaches are a sight to be seen — especially Flamenco Beach in Culebra — there are plenty more things to keep you busy. Love rum? Head to Casa Bacardi — one of the island's top attractions — for a 90-minute guided tasting tour priced at $75.

Flights into San Juan are typically priced between $150 and $500 for a round trip. In terms of accommodations, prices can vary greatly. Ranging from $90 to $200 per night, costs depend on the area and hotel grade.

9. Cartagena, Colombia

Located on Colombia's northern coast, Cartagena's walled city exudes colonial charm with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Dominated by the iconic Clock Tower and surrounded by centuries-old fortifications, this vibrant city is brimming with excitement, award-winning cuisine, and beautiful street art around every corner.

December sees Cartagena basking in warm tropical weather, with averages of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether you're looking to savor local delicacies like arepas and empanadas from street vendors — costing only $1-$3 — or settling in for a meal at one of Latin America's top 50 restaurants, Celele , with an average price of $33 per person, dining in Cartagena is an experience of its own. Meanwhile, the Rosario Islands — a short boat trip away, with boat ride prices ranging from $16 to $25 — offer pristine beaches, luxe accommodations, and coral reefs worth exploring.

Round-trip flights to Cartagena vary between $295 and $700, and accommodations in the historic district typically range from $40 to $170 per night.

10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana — synonymous with beach resorts and palm-lined coastlines — is an idyllic Caribbean retreat. However, beyond its beaches, you'll also find plenty of other attractions like the Reserva Ecológica Ojos Indigenas — a private reserve comprised of 1,500 acres of land — and the lively Coco Bongo nightclub, a hotspot for tourists looking to let loose.

In December, you can expect temperatures to remain around 83 degrees Fahrenheit. Apart from lounging on a beach chair and working on your tan with a cold drink — cocktails cost around $8 at a beach bar, while beers sit comfortably at $6 — consider joining a locally guided trip such as a buggy adventure ($40 per person), an Isla Salona excursion ($75), or a Santo Domingo city tour ($95).

Flights to Punta Cana cost between $250 and $800 for a round trip. Meanwhile, hotels range from $100 to $400 a night, depending on how close they are to the beach.

11. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is nature's playground. From lush rainforests to active volcanoes and serene beaches, this Central American gem is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a nature buff or a city slicker, the country's most popular activities include hitting up the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, climbing the Arenal Volcano (starting from $59 per person), visiting the Monteverde Cloud Forest (tours average $40 per person), checking out Costa Rica's national parks , and exploring the bustling streets of San Jose, Costa Rica's capital city.

December in Costa Rica is warm at around 86 degrees Fahrenheit near the coast and about 72 degrees Fahrenheit in the mountains. To travel around, local buses are both affordable and sustainable — just make sure you book your tickets beforehand. In terms of food, prices vary depending on where you dine. While a full-course meal can cost between $10-$20, a simple dish at a soda (local restaurant) is more likely to cost about $5.

Round-trip flights to San Jose average between $150 and $650, and accommodations span from eco-lodges at $40 to beach resorts at $120 per night.

12. Savannah, Georgia

Draped in Southern charm, Savannah boasts antebellum architecture, verdant squares, and a ghostly allure. Crowned as one of the most haunted cities in the country, this stateside gem offers a myriad of experiences: from wandering the cobblestone streets for a touch of nostalgia — especially along River Street — to hopping on a trolley tour, signing up for a haunted pub tour, or exploring the vibrant Forsyth Park.

While December brings cooler breezes, the temperatures remain comfortable at around 64 degrees Fahrenheit. To delve deeper into the city's history, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage tour or visiting the iconic Midnight Garden of Good and Evil spots. Then, indulge in Southern classics like shrimp and grits or peach cobbler at local diners for an average of $23.

Looking to escape the cold? Round-trip flights to Savannah can be budgeted between $98 and $350. With crowds lessening around December, historic inns and B&Bs range from $100 to $250 per night.

Affectionately referred to as "One Happy Island," Aruba boasts turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and the rugged landscapes of Arikok National Park, which takes up almost 20% of the island. Among sunbathers and nature lovers, some of the most widely-visited spots include Eagle Beach — hailed as one of the best in the Caribbean — and the famous California Lighthouse, which allows for 360-degree views from the top.

December sees Aruba enjoying steady trade winds and temperatures around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. If you feel like ditching the sun loungers for a more active day outside, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore the coastline and hit up some of the island's most iconic attractions.

Flights to Aruba fall between $300 and $600 for a round trip, while accommodations, depending on the location, range from $90 to $250 per night.

A tiny country along Central America's beautiful Caribbean coast, Belize offers a unique blend of jungles and shores. Some of the country's most spectacular sightseeing highlights include the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and the world-renowned Great Blue Hole, a hotspot for diving.

With December temperatures averaging 82 degrees Fahrenheit, Belize is both alluring and pleasant. This is especially true when hopping aboard a sailing tour to one of the neighboring cayes or relaxing on one of the country's many pristine beaches — both top activities for tourists. In terms of dining, local meals — like rice and beans, stew chicken, or fresh seafood — are easy to find and range from $5 to $15, depending on where you eat.

If you're flying to Belize City, you'll find that round-trip tickets are typically priced between $500 and $1,000 — with steeper prices around the end of the month. As for lodging options — whether you're looking for jungle lodges or beach huts — prices range from $70 to $180 per night.

15. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a picture-perfect blend of Southern charm and coastal beauty. The city's white sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing or picnics, and the warm Gulf waters beckon visitors for a quick swim. In terms of activities, children and adults can enjoy a fun day out at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo , getting up close and personal with different animal species. Meanwhile, The Wharf — in Orange Beach — boasts a range of retail outlets for the shopaholics alongside a range of restaurants to satiate every palate.

December temperatures hover around a mild 62 degrees Fahrenheit — a welcome reprise from colder climates in the North, without being too hot or humid. For a taste of local flavors, the local seafood is a highlight — with dishes like po'boys and gumbo ranging from $8-$18. Plus, active travelers might enjoy a bike ride along the coast — with rentals available for as low as $20 a day.

Flights to Gulf Shores hover between $200 and $500. Accommodation options like beachfront condos and hotels generally range between $80 and $180 per night.

16. Panama City, Panama

A bustling metropolis that offers a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication, Panama City is booming. The historic Casco Viejo — with its cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and sprawling plazas — serves as a live testament to the city's storied past. In terms of sightseeing, you can't miss the Panama Canal — a modern marvel linking two oceans and a symbol of human innovation.

While December sees average temperatures around 88 degrees Fahrenheit, Panama City's coastal breeze makes outdoor exploration a joy. Plus, after a day of sightseeing, the neighboring beaches — inner-city beaches aren't swimmable — provide a serene spot for relaxation. A ferry to the popular Taboga Island, for example, will set you back around $24.

A round-trip flight into Panama City can cost between $540 and $1,000. Depending on where you choose to stay, accommodations range from $40 to $200 per night.

17. Key West, Florida

At the southernmost tip of the continental U.S., Key West promises both adventure and relaxation. Historic homes — such as the Hemingway House — give a peek into the island's intriguing past, while sun-kissed beaches — like favorites Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor — are havens for beachgoers and sun enthusiasts looking to work on their holiday glow.

The average temperature in December — a pleasant 77 degrees Fahrenheit — makes outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing particularly enjoyable. In terms of dining, local eateries serve up fresh seafood and the iconic Key lime pie — which is said to have originated in the area around the late 19th century — with main dishes averaging $15 to $25.

Flights to Key West range from $70 to $490 for a round trip, while accommodations — given the popular tourist nature of the place — can cost anywhere between $224–$591 per night.

18. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina's capital is a whirlwind of culture and history. The historic San Telmo district and the upscale Puerto Madero offer contrasting views of this diverse city: cobblestone alleys and colonial façades in the former, and shimmering skyscrapers and modern eateries in the latter. During the winter months in the North, the southern hemisphere welcomes summer — meaning that locals and tourists alike flock to parks, open-air cafes, and plazas for a touch of warmth.

In December, Buenos Aires enjoys temperatures around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. While dance enthusiasts can experience the passionate tango at local milongas, art-loving travelers can soak up vibrant murals in Palermo or explore avant-garde exhibitions in Recoleta. Don't miss a stop by El Ateneo Grand Splendid – one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, set in a converted 1920s theater.

Flights to Buenos Aires are relatively steep – ranging from $1,000 to $1,700 per round trip. However, its affordability once you've landed more than makes up for the price tag. Meanwhile, hotel prices may also vary, but expect them to be between $30 and $130 per night.

19. San Diego, California

Often dubbed "America's Finest City," San Diego offers an enticing mix of sandy beaches, vibrant urban life, and cultural richness. Its coastline, with renowned spots like La Jolla and Coronado, beckons visitors for a day of sun, surf, and relaxation. Away from the water, the San Diego Zoo offers an immersive experience for families and solo travelers alike, with single-day tickets starting from $59 for children and $69 for adults.

In December, daytime temperatures average around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor exploration a pleasure. Foodies will be happy to know that the culinary scene won't disappoint. Especially notable is the fresh seafood, which fits in nicely inside an average food budget of $45 per day.

When planning a trip, travelers can expect flights to San Diego to be in the ballpark of $200 to $500. As for accommodations, these cater to a range of budgets, with nightly rates spanning from $90 to $300.

20. Quito, Ecuador

Perched high in the Andes at an altitude of 9,350 feet, Quito offers breathtaking views and a moderate climate despite its proximity to the equator. The city's historic center — declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in the late 70's — is a well-preserved architectural gem. Meanwhile, just outside the city, the Middle of the World Monument calls out to visitors keen to straddle both hemispheres. Tours to visit the attraction range from $15 for basic transport, to $120 for a full-day trip with other stops along the way.

Daytime temperatures in December average around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a comfortable environment to explore the city without breaking a sweat. From Quito, visitors can also head out to neighboring destinations like Otavalo — famous for its market and crafts — and Cotopaxi, which is well-known for hosting the Volcan Cotopaxi, the second-highest point in the country. Both of these are easily reachable by taking a local bus, and you shouldn't expect to pay more than $3 to reach Otavalo or $20 for a return trip to the volcano checkpoint.

Flight prices to Quito usually range between $350 and $800 for a round trip. Accommodation, depending on the location and luxury level, can cost between $25 and $150 per night.

hot air balloons over Vilnius Lithuania.

22 Cheap Destinations to Visit in 2022

July 10, 2023

10 min read

It’s a new year and—fingers crossed—that means new opportunities to see the world. While we always recommend letting the deals dictate where you go, there are always a few places we’re pretty confident we’ll see deals to in the coming year. These may be places that are getting new routes or new airlines serving them, or spots with reliably cheap flights .

For this year, we’ve narrowed it down to places that are already open to visitors, or that we expect to open to visitors before the second half of the year.

Here, in no particular order, are 22 cheap destinations to add to your list for 2022 (you can also check out our lists for 2021 and 2020 or check out our State of Cheap Flights report for more ideas!).

1. Vietnam

The Vietnamese government has announced plans to reopen by the second half of 2022, which means travelers could be enjoying the beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and incredible food (bánh mì, bun rieu, bánh xèo, and lots of things that don’t start with b) before summer’s end.

Additionally, Vietnam Airlines launched the first nonstop flights between the US and Vietnam with service from San Francisco with Ho Chi Minh City. And, Bamboo Airlines is in the process of launching nonstop service from Hanoi (HAN) and Da Nang (DAD) to San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), and Seattle (SEA). This should cut transit time from the West Coast to Vietnam by up to 8 hours—and will likely result in lower fares.

Getting there: ‍

Connecting flights to Vietnam arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and Da Nang (DAD), among others. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to SGN is $544 roundtrip.

Hoi An: The Ancient City Lit by Lanterns
Vietnam’s Most Beautiful Rice Terraces

Previous deals we’ve found to Vietnam:

Denver to Ho Chi Minh City for $541
NYC to Hanoi for $2,434 in business class
Houston to Ho Chi Minh City for $1,190 in premium economy

2. The Pacific Northwest

Visiting New Zealand may still be difficult in 2022 but the PNW is the next best thing, with its own stunning coastline, mystical rainforests, snow-capped mountains, straight-from-the-boat seafood, and world-class wineries. Plus, you can plan a road trip without having to learn to navigate on the left side of the road. Wins all around.

Getting there:

Seattle (SEA) and Portland (PDX) are the biggest airports in the PNW, but there are several smaller ones with frequent deals including Bend, Medford, Spokane, Bellingham, and Eugene. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to SEA is $105 roundtrip.

Seattle: The City Fueled by Coffee
Portland: The Foodie City That Embraces the Weird

Previous deals we’ve found to the PNW:

Las Vegas to Bellingham for $78
LA to Medford for $117 nonstop
Newark to Portland for $153 nonstop

3. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated Americans without quarantine in October of 2021 and it has one of the highest rates of vaccination (96% among eligible people), making it an appealing place for a relatively low-risk trip. Plus, there’s a whole bunch of new attractions recently added to the destination’s roster. Among them are 12,000 feet of man-made wetlands at the ABC Waters at Jurong Lake and the swanky new villas at the Raffles Sentosa Resort & Spa hotel.

Nonstop flights are offered from NYC, SF, and LA to Singapore’s award-winning Changi airport (SIN). The average price of an economy deal found by Going to SIN is $498 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Singapore:

San Francisco to Singapore for $664
Houston to Singapore for $599
NYC to Singapore for $1,216 nonstop in premium economy

Oman is known as both The Pearl of Arabia and The Switzerland of the Middle East, and if that isn’t enough to pique your interest, perhaps its combination of sprawling deserts, spectacular beaches, and green mountain ranges will do it.

Compared to its glitzier neighbors of Dubai and Doha, Muscat (Oman’s capital and largest city) feels downright modest, with not a skyscraper in sight. But what it lacks in over-the-top architecture it makes up for in rich history, a varied landscape, and notoriously friendly locals. As a bonus, Oman Air has been mulling the idea of direct flights to the USA in 2022, which could make the journey cheaper and shorter.

Fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed in Oman with proof of negative Covid test no older than 96 hours, and proof of insurance that covers Covid.

Most flights to Oman will go through Europe, Dubai, or Doha. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Muscat (MCT) is $699 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Oman:

Atlanta to Muscat for $772
Chicago to Muscat for $2,843 in business class

5. Greenland

Since Icelandair acquired Air Iceland in 2021, travelers can now book single-ticket itineraries from the USA to Greenland (albeit with a stopover in Reykjavik) making it easier to visit Greenland independently.

Making the trip does require transferring from the international airport (KEF) to Reykjavik’s city airport, which is about 45 minutes away. For that reason, we still recommend booking two separate tickets to account for any delays (and so you can spend a day or two in Iceland). But, if you can snag a flight to Iceland for under $400 (which we see frequently, especially with the launch of PLAY airlines ) and combine it with a good deal from there to Greenland (around $500 roundtrip) you can get to the world’s largest island for under a thousand dollars—which is pretty good all things considered.

Currently, travel to Greenland isn’t recommended (though fully vaccinated US citizens are allowed with a negative test taken in a Nordic or EU country) but we’re hopeful that will change before too long. Vaccinated US citizens are allowed in Iceland with a negative test.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Iceland is $440 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Iceland:

DC to Iceland for $248
Chicago nonstop to Iceland for $375
Orlando nonstop to Iceland for $984 in premium economy

United added new nonstop routes to Accra from Dulles in Spring 2021, and it has resulted in one-stop routing to Ghana from regional airports throughout the country for never-before-seen prices. Being able to get to West Africa from smaller US airports without stopping in Europe is a gamechanger.

Add to that the fact that Ghana put a ton of effort into strengthening infrastructure for a Year of Return event in 2020 (which largely fell flat due to the pandemic) and you’ve got a recipe for a great trip. United is upping the frequency of those new flights from IAD to Accra to daily (from 3x per week) starting in May, which should put more downward pressure on fares and make deals more frequent.

Ghana is open to Americans with a negative Covid test. An additional test is required upon arrival for a $150 fee.

Flights to Ghana land in Accra (ACC). The average price of an economy deal found by Going to ACC is $662 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Ghana:

Miami to Accra for $680
San Francisco to Accra for $700
Boston to Accra for $2,280 in business class

7. Venice, Italy

Italy reopened to tourism in early 2021 (Americans can enter with a negative test and either proof of vaccination or recovery) and while Venice is always one of the most popular spots in the country, tourism levels have not fully recovered so those who visit in 2022 will likely have the same experience as those who went in 2021—seeing one of the most visited cities in the world without the crowds.

As an added bonus, the Venice Biennale, which takes place every two years, is scheduled to be held from April to November. The international contemporary art exhibition brings together artists from all over the world for shows throughout the city.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Venice (VCE) is $473 roundtrip.

Venice: The Island City That's Slowly Sinking
The Travel Guide to Venice

Previous deals we’ve found to Venice:

Boise to Venice for $354
NYC nonstop to Venice for $497
Boston to Venice for $1,972 in business class

8. Dominica

Earlier in the year American Airlines launched their first nonstop service from the US to Dominica, making it a lot easier to get to this small, underrated Caribbean island between Guadeloupe and Martinique.

Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is a rugged island that’s all about nature. It’s the only place in the world you can see sperm whales year round, the beaches are made of volcanic sand, there are nine active volcanoes and 18 named waterfalls—all on an island that’s half the size of Los Angeles.

Vaccinated travelers are welcome in Dominica with a negative Covid test. There’s a second test required on arrival with a fee of $100 XCD (about $37 USD).

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Dominica is $360 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Dominica:

NYC to Dominica for $302
Denver to Dominica for $360

Tucked between Venezuela, Suriname, and the northern edges of Brazil, little Guyana doesn’t get a lot of attention, but it should. It’s home to one of the largest stretches of pristine rainforest in the world, with more than 85% of the country covered in rainforest. Wildlife includes anteaters, giant river otters, pumas, howler monkeys, and more.

Add in stunning waterfalls, nearly 900 species of birds, and a cultural mix that includes Indigenous, African, and East Asian influences, plus a strong focus on sustainable development, and you have the recipe for the next great South American destination.

US citizens can enter Guyana with proof of vaccination and a negative test not older than 72 hours.

Flights to Guyana fly into Georgetown (GEO), the capital, which is located on the northern coast. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to GEO is $542 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Guyana:

Atlanta to Guyana for $315
NYC to Guyana for $273 nonstop

10. Alberta, Canada

Alberta is always a popular destination thanks to the incredible landscapes found in Banff and Jasper National Park. In the summer, it plays host to the Calgary Stampede, and any time of year you can gaze at the stars in the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world in Jasper. And the province has new attractions as well. There’s the 30,000 square-foot Indigenous Peoples Experience , an immersive exhibit exploring First Nations history and culture. At the Fairmont Banff Springs, you can dine in the 360° Dome , a glass igloo with incredible mountain views.

Fully vaccinated Americans can enter Canada with proof of a negative test. Travelers 12 and older must also be fully vaccinated to travel by plane or train within Canada.

Flights to Alberta arrive in Edmonton or Calgary. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Calgary (YYC) is $259 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Alberta:

Phoenix nonstop to Edmonton for $266 roundtrip
Las Vegas nonstop to Calgary for $219 roundtrip
Seattle nonstop to Calgary for $385 roundtrip in business class

11. Argentina

Argentina reopened to vaccinated Americans with a negative Covid test in November and for anyone who loves tender beef, silky Malbec wine, and sultry tango, it was reason to rejoice.

Of course, those aren’t the only reasons to visit. From the cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires, to the sprawling Patagonian Steppe to the ski resorts of Bariloche to the wineries of Mendoza, every corner of the country has something special.

Most flights land in Buenos Aires (EZE), though you can also fly to spots like Mendoza, Salta, and Ushuaia. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to EZE is $510 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Argentina:

Orlando to Buenos Aires for $547
NYC to Buenos Aires for $1,278 in business class

12. Japan

Japan’s figurative doors slammed shut to American visitors in early 2020, and they haven’t reopened yet. Things were looking promising in late 2021 before the Omicron variant was discovered, and the country has a very high vaccination rate (over 75%), so we’re hopeful the country will reopen to travelers by the end of 2022—and not just because several members of the Going team still have tickets to Japan bought when they were around $200!

When the country does reopen, there’s plenty to explore, from the neon glitz of Tokyo to the traditions of Kyoto to the snowy slopes of Sapporo to the beaches of Okinawa. And don’t even get us started on the food: stunningly beautiful sushi, the most tender wagyu beef, steaming bowls of ramen. In short, when those doors reopen, we’ll be the first in line.

Flights to Japan tend to fly into Tokyo (NRT or HND) or Osaka (KIX) though there are several others. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to NRT is $541 roundtrip.

Kyoto: Where Ancient Traditions Live On
The Travel Guide to Tokyo

Previous deals we’ve found to Japan:

San Francisco to Tokyo for $202
San Antonio to Osaka for $1,236 in premium economy
Portland to Tokyo for $2,719 in business class

13. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Okay hear us out. Oklahoma does not generally top the list of “must-visit” states for most travelers, but it’s got a lot going for it, especially in Oklahoma City. From breweries and street art to funky galleries and Old West history (its home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum ) it’s got something for everyone.

And as of 2021, there’s a new reason to visit: The First Americans Museum, which honors Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations and houses the National Native American Hall of Fame. The museum includes interactive exhibits, Indigenous art and artifacts, and two restaurants focused on Native foods.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to OKC is $182 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Oklahoma City:

Denver nonstop to Oklahoma City for $57
Tampa nonstop to Oklahoma City for $62

14. Tahiti, French Polynesia

We’ve been seeing some great deals to Tahiti over the last year, and we don’t expect that to stop anytime soon. While Tahiti was closed for a bit over the last two years, vaccinated Americans are now welcome in Tahiti with proof of a negative test and a second test upon arrival.

The 118 islands that make up French Polynesia feel a world away, but when you can fly there in about eight hours from the West Coast (and for about the cost of a trip to Europe), they suddenly feel a lot closer. And while ultra-luxe accommodation is the post-card image, there are plenty of smaller, family-run guesthouses that make the trip a lot more affordable.

Flights to Tahiti fly to Papeete, the capital, and there are direct flights via the West Coast on French bee . The average price of an economy deal found by Going to PPT is $665 roundtrip.

French Polynesia: The Pacific Ocean Country of 118 Islands

Previous deals we’ve found to Tahiti:

San Francisco nonstop to Tahiti for $557
Minneapolis to Tahiti for $818
Los Angeles nonstop to Tahiti for $1,582 in premium economy

15. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is the most vaccinated spot in the US with 74% of the population fully vaccinated. Plus, since it’s technically part of the US, there’s no passport required for US citizens and no Covid test required for returning to the mainland, making it a stress-free way to get some Caribbean sun and sand.

With miles of sandy beaches, rainforest, and a unique culture, there’s so much to explore, from salsa dancing in the capital and largest city, San Juan, to lazing in the sand on one of its dozens of cayes and islets.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to San Juan (SJU) is $240 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Puerto Rico:

Pittsburgh to Puerto Rico for $156
Detroit to Puerto Rico for $102
Chicago to Puerto Rico for $576 in business class

16. Lithuania

One of the Baltic nations in Eastern Europe, Lithuania has long been overlooked compared to Western Europe’s hotspots like Italy and France. But this budget-friendly country is rich in history, art, culture, and natural beauty—and it’s open to vaccinated Americans.

There are thousands of lakes, sprawling sand dunes, and acres upon acres of national parks (nearly 40% of the country is forested). The center of Vilnius, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2022, Kaunas, the country’s second-largest city, will be a European Capital of Culture, which means a full program of events and art installations throughout the year.

Most flights to Lithuania fly into Vilnius (VNO) with a connection elsewhere in Europe. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to VNO is $492 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Lithuania:

Cleveland to Vilnius for $446
LA to Vilnius for $443

17. London, UK

London is always a good idea (the history! The pubs! The fish and chips!) but even more so in 2022 as Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her Platinum Jubilee marking 70 years of her reign. There’ll be a birthday parade, horse races, and other special events commemorating the occasion. London is also reliably one of the cheaper places to fly into Europe and there are dozens of daily direct flights all over Europe from the city, so you can combine a few days in the Big Smoke with a trip elsewhere on the continent.

Vaccinated US citizens are allowed to enter the UK with a negative Covid test. Currently (as of November 30), before arrival they’ll need to purchase PCR tests to take after arriving in the UK and then self-isolate until the results come in.

Most flights to London arrive at Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW) though there are other smaller airports that also service the city. The average price of an economy deal found by Going to LHR is $453 roundtrip.

The Travel Guide to London

Previous deals we’ve found to London:

Dallas to London for $471
NYC to London for $336
Las Vegas to London for $2,226 in business class

18. Charleston, South Carolina

Charming Charleston is always a popular destination, known for its Southern hospitality, some of the best restaurants in the country, and thriving arts scene.

In 2022, there’ll be one more reason to make the trip. The International African American Museum opens in the fall, located on the same site where nearly 40% of all enslaved people in the US first arrived. The interactive museum will celebrate the achievements of African Americans in the US throughout history and include a Center for Family History where visitors can conduct genealogical research.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Charleston (CHS) is $185 roundtrip.

Charleston: The Southern City Where Nothing’s Taller Than a Church Steeple

Previous deals we’ve found to Charleston:

Akron nonstop to Charleston for $80
New Orleans nonstop to Charleston for $78

Panama has a lot more going for it than just its famous canal (though really, it’s an engineering marvel). There are beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, hundreds of islands, miles upon miles of rainforest, and some of the best coffee producers in the world. And that’s before you even get to the buzzy capital, Panama City.

Plus, it’s easy to travel to and within. The currency is the US dollar, English is widely spoken, and with Copa Airlines’ Panama Stopover program, you can add a one- to seven-day stopover on your way to 36 destinations in South America at no extra cost. US travelers can enter Panama with either proof of vaccination or a negative test.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Panama City (PTY) is $271 roundtrip.

The Layover Guide to Panama City

Previous deals we’ve found to Panama:

Tampa to Panama for $195
Los Angeles nonstop to Panama for $190
Miami nonstop to Panama for $522 in business class

20. Barbados

The small Caribbean island of Barbados recently made headlines when it officially became a republic, dropping England’s Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and inaugurating President Sandra Mason.

At the celebration, Rhianna was also declared a National Hero, and if the country is beloved by RiRi, it’s good enough for us. Seventy miles of beaches, wildlife like turtles and monkeys, the world’s oldest rum distillery, and delicious cuisine that mixes African, Caribbean, West Indian and European influences add to the appeal.

Vaccinated travelers with a negative Covid test are welcome in Barbados without quarantine.

Barbados is in the Eastern Caribbean southeast of St. Lucia. Flights to Barbados arrive in Bridgetown (BGI). The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Barbados is $315 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Barbados:

NYC nonstop to Barbados for $286
Philadelphia to Barbados for $271
Newark nonstop to Barbados for $768 in business class

21. Belize

Cradled between Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, Belize is one of the gems of Central America. It has stunning beaches, hundreds of small islands, wildlife like jaguars and monkeys, two annual Carnival celebrations—and only a fraction of the visitors of nearby Cancún or Costa Rica. Plus, for divers and snorkelers, there’s the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, which gives Australia’s Great Barrier Reef some serious competition.

Belize is open to US citizens with a negative Covid test.

Flights to Belize fly into Belize City (BZE). The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Belize is $346 roundtrip.

Belize: The Caribbean Nation with 400 Islands
How to Spend One Week in Belize

Previous deals we’ve found to Belize:

Kansas City to Belize for $282
DC to Belize for $204

22. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has been a rising star in Western Europe over the last few years, with fantastic seafood, an endlessly instagrammable cityscape, and proximity to beautiful beaches and surreal castles. Of course, that has resulted in a lot of crowds during the peak summer season most years.

While Portugal was among the first wave of countries to reopen in 2021 (US visitors are allowed with a negative test), tourism numbers are still far from what they were in 2018 and 2019, which means those who visit in 2022 will have a chance to see the lovely seaside city the way it was a decade ago.

Plus, it’s cheaper than ever to get there, thanks to frequent deals on TAP Air Portugal (even in business class) and if you’re flying TAP to somewhere else in Europe you can add a stopover in Lisbon at no extra cost.

The average price of an economy deal found by Going to Lisbon (LIS) is $479 roundtrip.

Previous deals we’ve found to Lisbon:

NYC to Lisbon for $248
San Francisco to Lisbon for $374
Nashville to Lisbon for $2,003 in business class

Want to explore these and other amazing destinations for less? Join Going to get notified of the best airfare sales to spots around the world and save hundreds on your next flight.

Published July 10, 2023

Last updated December 19, 2023

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The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Left: people snorkle through turquoise water in the Philippines. Right: People sit next to their bikes while watching the sunset in San Diego.

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

A bushcamp in Central Kalahari; the northern lights in Arctic Sweden.

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

A sign saying "joyeux noel" hangs in a tropical tree; kids run and play on a monument in India.

Martinique

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire .

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink?

Grab a cookie in a Black Forest Christmas market; eat some suckling pig in Puerto Rico.

Black Forest, Germany

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct.

Puerto Rico

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

A person in red skis down the slopes Slovenia; a surfer on the beach enjoys the storms on Vancouver Island.

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost.

Vancouver Island, Canada

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold.

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of Where to Go When .

This article was first published September 2019 and updated October 2023

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25 Best Destinations to Travel in December

Traveling in December can be rewarding in multiple ways.

Between Thanksgiving and New Year's, many find themselves too busy to hop on a plane or hit the road beyond visiting family. But those who plan ahead will often find places less crowded with tourists than, say, the summer season as well as heavily discounted rates for hotels, flights and more if you squeeze in a trip before Christmas.

And you'll be pleasantly surprised that the holiday spirit is in full swing in many of these best destinations to travel in December.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Bavarian city of Nuremberg truly comes to life in December when its world-renown Christkindlesmarkt opens.

Since 1530 this pre-Christmas market has transformed Main Market Square into a festive atmosphere filled with holiday trinkets and the scent of hot, mulled wine. It's impossible not to feel the Christmas spirit when strolling its ancient streets and squares.

Where to Stay

Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg, a Marriott property, is located near the rail station, which is perfect for arriving by train.

The neighborhood is filled with shops and restaurants while the building itself dates back more than 120 years and is a timeless grand hotel.

Book here .

Vail, Colorado

Colorado's Rocky Mountain peaks beckon skiers and boarders for fun on the slopes, but most wait until after the holidays to visit. Ski resorts, however, open in December and offer special early bird rates for those looking to enjoy some of the best runs without the crowds.

Vail, in particular, provides an alpine village that resembles Europe where you'll see Bavarian-type architecture nestled right up to the mountain and charming cobbled streets packed with boutiques.

For the best of the slopes, stay at the Lodge at Vail, a RockResort, which offers ski-in, ski-out accommodations along with a ski valet to make your visit even sweeter. Just wake, grab your skis and go!

At the end of the day, aprés ski is in full effect just steps from the hotel, or simply sit on your hotel room balcony and watch the stragglers descend down Pepe's Face.

Yellowstone National Park

Overly crowded during the summer months, winter is a perfect time to explore Yellowstone. Not only are the crowds gone, but you'll also get to employ unique measures to explore the park, namely snowmobiles and snow coaches.

The park's famous geysers become more picturesque in the snow as well, creating turquoise pools of water rising from the earth that is surrounded by snow.

One of only two properties open in Yellowstone during the winter months is Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, which provides first-hand access to miles of backcountry ski trails and the nearby hot springs and the Northern Range.

The hotel closes for its fall season on Nov. 1 but reopens for its winter guests on Dec. 15, often with great deals before the holidays.

December may be the start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but in the Southern Hemisphere, spring is just beginning. And so begins the Antarctica cruise season.

Aboard an exploratory cruise ship, cross the Drake Passage and visit the Antarctic Peninsula, where penguins by the thousands can be spotted. (You may also catch whales breeching nearby!)

A cruise ship is the only accommodation when visiting Antarctica. Lindblad Expeditions is the pioneer of cruises to this part of the world having launched the first more than 50 years ago.

Partnering with National Geographic, expect the cruise to be a safari of sorts as you discover and learn about the unique landscape and its wildlife.

Cape Town, South Africa

Again, the Southern Hemisphere is a great way to get away from the chill descending upon the Northern Hemisphere, and one of the hottest spots to be is the tip of Africa in Cape Town. From vineyards to beachfronts, a cosmopolitan city to its rugged mountains for hiking, Cape Town has it all.

During the holidays, Cape Town books up with travelers wanting to spend New Year's at the beach, but deals can be found before the rush of people arrive.

At the AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront, you can enjoy waterfront sunset views while still being steps from the array of shops and restaurants.

A Marriott hotel, the property rests within the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront district, which is another lively entertainment spot for visitors.

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires (there's actually a lot more!), Prague is another fairytale setting when dusted with a light coating of snow.

The early setting sun may make the days shorter, but at night, Prague's bridges, churches and castles are aglow to add to the romantic ambiance.

Located within minutes of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge in Lesser Town, the Aria Hotel is a music-inspired boutique property in the Embassy neighborhood.

Each of its 51 rooms and suites is decorated in its own musical stylings, and the five-star property's private manicured gardens are protected by UNESCO.

Budapest, Hungary

This Eastern European capital is also illuminated in the evening, and the place to see the light best is from along the Danube River that divides the former Buda and Pest. You'll witness the monumental architecture lit in the darkness, including Budapest Castle, the city's many bridges and its stately Parliament Building.

Hungarian Baths are found around the city and provide hot springs in which to soak under the stars (or the falling snow) for a December getaway like no other.

Like Prague, Aria Budapest is a sister hotel providing another five-star location with music-themed rooms decorated with velvet-covered furnishings and decadence at every turn.

The hotel is steps from a Christmas Market situated at the foot of St. Stephen's Basilica, which you can view from Aria's rooftop restaurant and bar.

Quebec City, Canada

You don't need to travel to Europe to find the picturesque settings of yesteryear when you can cross the U.S. border and find a touch of Europe in Old Quebec. Founded by the French, it has two "levels" of shop-filled streets winding around the iconic Chateau du Frontenac that sits sentinel overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

In the winter, take a toboggan ride along the same track that has been making people squeal since 1884. If you visit for the New Year, ice sculptures, a winter Ferris wheel and fireworks are all part of the fun.

You could stay at the Chateau, but instead, enjoy a cozy room across the street in the Auberge Place d'Armes. The original building architecture goes back more than 400 years, and although renovated and modernized, it provides old-fashioned charm.

There are just 20 rooms in this two-story hotel with dining on the ground floor. Plus, you can look upon the Chateau for the better view.

Kyoto, Japan

Witness the snow falling gently upon Kyoto, when tourism has dropped along with hotel prices. The area is filled with skiers heading to Hirogawara, the only ski resort within the city's limits.

The city is also home to hot springs, and a visit to an "onsen" (hot springs) in the open air provides a combination of hot and cold experiences with the mountain views in the backdrop.

Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located directly above the train station to make it easy to reach upon arrival. More than 530 rooms can be found in this massive and contemporary property.

You'll have views of Kyoto Tower from floor-to-ceiling windows in rooms and suites that are thoroughly modern.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Known as Christmas City, the little town of Bethlehem is found between Philadelphia and New York in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. Founded on Christmas Eve in 1741 by Moravians, Bethlehem comes to life during December.

Stroll brick-lined sidewalks, and see the historic homes open during special holiday tours. The town's history as a leading steel manufacturer is still seen with the old Steel Stacks factory illuminated, and it's home to the largest Christmas market in the U.S.

The historic Hotel Bethlehem rests on the site where a hotel was first opened in 1741 and remains the grand dame of Bethlehem, standing tall above Main Street and the historic district.

During the holidays, the hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland and hosts a number of galas and events, including an annual New Year's Eve party.

St. Petersburg, Russia

With its snowy white background, St. Petersburg, Russia, offers splashes of color with its pastel, Candyland-style architecture that will make you feel as if you entered a fairytale.

The pastel-colored buildings topped with golden domes harken back to a period when the Czars and their families lived in the great palaces and frequented the Baroque churches. A December visit becomes even more magical when all is decorated for the holidays.

The State Hermitage Museum, founded in 1764, is the second-largest museum in the world. You can stay at its Official Hotel, connected directly to the former palace.

Added in 2013, guests receive VIP entrance into the museum and can just imagine the luxuries of court life while staying at the artfully decorated hotel.

Newport Beach, California

Visit Orange County, California, the week before Christmas, and you'll find a parade that goes back more than a century. For five days, boats in the harbor are decked in yuletide cheer for the annual event.

What's not to love about a visit to the oceanside town in December when you can also enjoy the California sunshine and wonderful beach views?

A destination hotel, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach spans 26 acres overlooking Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve.

Spend your day in one of three swimming pools or on a nine-hole golf course, and in the evening, you can even glimpse the boat parade from your perch.

Hollywood, Florida

On the opposite U.S. coast, you can find another holiday boat parade at the Seminole Hard Rock's Winterfest Boat Parade.

The South Florida event extends 12 miles, but when you aren't enjoying the tour of decorated boats, you are minutes from Fort Lauderdale and its fabulous shopping and dining on Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

Stay at the Seminole Hard Rock, the host of Winterfest, and you can also enjoy special Winterfest events and a black-tie ball.

The resort offers multiple swimming pools, a casino and entertainment venues for live music — this is a Hard Rock after all.

Salzburg, Austria

The hills are alive in the winter months in Salzburg, and in December, the quaint Bavarian city's historic buildings, fortress and gardens become a holiday wonderland.

You'll find Christmas markets here as well, but even without its holiday charm, Salzburg is magical. A musical city — the birthplace of Mozart — it feels as if classical music pours from every building.

Stay at the riverfront Hotel Sacher with its commanding views of the Salzburg Fortress. This historic five-star hotel has welcomed royalty and celebrities for decades, and there is luxury at every turn.

It's not the home to the original Sacher Torte, created at the Hotel Sacher in Vienna, but you'll still enjoy the famed Austrian cake — a must-have while visiting.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, located in France's Alsace region that expands into Germany, rests beside the Rhine River and offers winding streets of French Normandy-style homes and buildings.

The fairytale city's Romanesque cathedral is more than 1,000 years old, and surrounding it in December are more of the trinket-filled Christmas markets found across Europe.

Although there are many hotels in which to choose in Strasbourg, consider a Rhine River cruise aboard Uniworld River Cruises. Not only will it stop at intimate towns decorated for the holidays, but the two-story barge ships are also opulent in every way.

The all-inclusive cruises provide your meals and entertainment when you aren't exploring riverside towns of Germany and France.

Stowe, Vermont

Back in the U.S., head into Northern Vermont's Green Mountains for one of the best winter getaways in New England. Stowe, home to the ski resort of the same name, is a place to spend your days on the slopes and your nights by a fire.

The pines of Vermont get covered with snow early in December, so winter fun-seekers can get an early start (and discounts).

Formerly Stowe Mountain Resort, Spruce Peak offers ski-in/ski-out facilities along with a choice of hotel rooms and suites or vacation homes for accommodations.

The family-friendly resort provides programs for children, ski lessons, ice skating, snowshoeing, horseback riding, dog sledding and sleigh rides. Of course, leading up to the holidays, the resort is decked out in holiday cheer.

Lake Placid, New York

Across the border in New York awaits the winter destination of Lake Placid, home to not one but two winter Olympic games.

Whiteface Mountain becomes the place to be for slope-side activities in the Adirondack Mountains, while in the heart of town are ice skating, an Olympic museum and utterly cute restaurants and shops open year-round. Don't miss Santa's Workshop at the mountain.

Be surrounded by Adirondack Park at the Whiteface Lodge, a luxurious log cabin resort getaway.

When not enjoying the spoils of Lake Placid, the resort features year-round swimming, ice skating, bonfires and s'mores, and activities for the entire family throughout the day.

Azores, Portugal

December is a great time for an island getaway, and the remote archipelago of Portugal known as the Azores is just the spot. December is the end of hurricane season and, although it can get chilly at night, makes a good month for travel.

Due to the Azores' dramatic mountains and sea landscapes along with culture-rich towns, many people who visit these islands enjoy hiking and exploring the rugged landscape.

Located in Portas Do Mar, the Azur Hotel overlooks the marina and is within walking distance from Ponta Delgada, where you can spend your time roaming the city center and sampling Portuguese foods.

Of course, the main draw of rooms at this property are the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is a chance to step into the past, with costumed re-enactors in historic buildings showcasing what life was like in Colonial America. And that definitely includes the holiday season.

Visiting in December means fewer crowds and a chance to see what a Christmas was like during the 1700s through decorations, seasonal programming and, yes, Christmas feasts.

Stay at the main property of Colonial Williamsburg, the Williamsburg Inn. Located in the heart of the old village, this beautiful hotel gets adorned for the season. If there happens to be a white Christmas, you'll be even luckier to call it home for a few nights.

Rooms and restaurants are elegantly decorated in Regency style to match the surroundings but with modern amenities at every turn.

If you have always wanted to witness the phenomenon that is the Northern Lights, from December through March is when they are most often caught dancing above Iceland.

The island's hot springs, such as the renowned Blue Lagoon, can also be enjoyed during the cold months even as snow falls upon you.

Alda Hotel gives you a chance to stay in the capital and largest city in Iceland: Reykjavik. The boutique property is located on Laugavegur Street, where the hippest restaurants, shops and entertainment can be found.

Of course, in order to have the best Northern Lights views, you'll need to leave the city at night, which is easy to do with Thingvellir National Park just right outside the city limits.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Before Nantucket practically shuts down to tourism until the spring, you can enjoy a wintery visit right before the holidays when the idyllic island is covered in garland and bows.

Most restaurants and shops remain open through New Year, and although the beaches will be whipping with chilly ocean winds, the quiet early winter environment gives a truer sense of what it is like to live on the island.

Just steps from the ferry within Nantucket town is the Nantucket Hotel, a family-friendly New England property.

With a decor straight out of a beach-cottage stylebook, you'll find Nantucket Hotel is the only year-round property and offers holiday dinners, New Year's Eve parties, fire pits and hot tubs to warm up your stay.

Walt Disney World Resort, Florida

Yes, Walt Disney World Resort is in Orlando, but it's really Disney that's the draw during this time of year. Disney is a year-round destination, but with so many guests visiting with children, the school-year dates keep ticket sales down. This means a December visit (pre-Christmas) can be rewarding, with less time standing in lines and special deals.

As Disney always does, it goes all out during the holiday season and features Christmas-themed parades, activities and decor — they even make it snow in Florida!

Arguably the prettiest of the Disney World properties, the Grand Floridian overlooks the Magic Kingdom with private boats that deliver you to the gates. From this hotel, you can even see the nightly fireworks that go off at Cinderella's Castle (perfect for when you have little ones that need to go to bed early).

The hotels, like the theme parks, get decorated to the nines, and inside this Victorian-styled resort is a life-size gingerbread house of Victorian design to match.

St. Croix, Virgin Islands

Americans don't need a passport to jet off to the Caribbean when they're visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you're wanting a last warm-weather gasp before winter descends, the islands will definitely give you a good dose of sun.

The more remote of the USVI, St. Croix is also the largest of the island collection and home to the only underwater national park, Buck Island Reef National Park.

The Buccaneer is a family-owned property that was founded in the 17th century and has four generations of history in its main buildings. Built on a former sugar plantation, the resort offers white-sand beaches and plenty of ocean views.

You can even take a historical tour around the property with a staff guide who showcases the gardens, plantation life and St. Croix history.

Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is one of the most beloved stories of the holidays, so it goes without saying that spending time in England during December could be Dickensesque.

The city's shops feature holiday windows, lights are strewn from park trees and holiday cheer abounds with ice skating rinks and Christmastime events taking place throughout the month.

London's Mayfair neighborhood is one of the toniest in the city and located within steps of high-end shops and London's best parks. There are also many five-star hotels located here, including The May Fair by Radisson Collection.

The hotel originally opened in 1927 and remains the epitome of high society, so live it up and enjoy the glitz and glamour.

When it comes to pre-holiday hotspots, New York takes the cake. From the moment the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue until the ball drops in Times Square on New Year's Eve, this city is the place to be for shopping and holiday cheer.

Crowds are going to be plentiful if you visit, especially while shopping or visiting Rockefeller Center and Central Park. Still, there isn't anything more romantic than Manhattan in December.

Hotels are a dime a dozen in the city, but a favorite is the Archer Hotel, found near the Empire State Building and Bryant Park.

This boutique property offers rooms with direct, unobstructed views of the Empire State Building, as does its rooftop bar. The key to visiting the city when it is crowded is to make your way to these hidden rooftops after a long day to enjoy the views.

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Cheap Places to Travel in December

Ah, December – a month where the air is as crisp as the starched collar of a holiday tuxedo, and the streets are aglow with more lights than a Las Vegas marquee. It's a time when wallets tremble in fear as the holiday season beckons with the sweet siren song of sales and splurges. But fear not, my budget-conscious wanderlusters, for I, Bryan Holiday, your trusty travel sage with over a decade of globe-trotting wisdom, am here to guide you through the winter wonderland of affordable travel destinations.

Why december can be the best time for budget travel, the off-peak advantage:, holiday deals and packages:, the winter wonderland effect:, factors to consider when looking for cheap places to travel, cost of living: the daily deal breaker, understanding local peak seasons, the impact of currency fluctuations on travel budgets, top cheap destinations to visit in december, asia: where your wallet can afford to wander, vietnam: the land of pho and fiscal joy, india: a symphony of savings, latin america: sun, salsa, and savings, mexico: a fiesta of frugality, colombia: the price is right in paradise, europe: old world charm without the old school prices, portugal: a wallet-friendly wonder, greece: mythical beauty on a mortal budget, africa: where adventure meets affordability, morocco: a bazaar of bargains, egypt: pharaohs and fiscal phantasmagoria, money-saving tips for december travel, leveraging travel sim cards for savings, the art of finding budget accommodations, cultural experiences on a budget, navigating holiday travel deals: the savvy shopper’s guide, where to find the best travel deals, timing your booking for the best rates, package deals vs. independent travel, preparing for your december travels, packing tips for winter destinations, travel insurance and safety tips, staying connected – international sim cards vs. local sim cards, the essentials of travel insurance, communication solutions: sim cards for travelers, what are the cheapest destinations to fly to in december, how can i save money on accommodations during my december travels, are there any travel sim card tips for december travel, what are some free things to do in these cheap december destinations, how do i manage communication costs while traveling.

In the following parchment of travel lore, you'll embark on a journey to discover the Shangri-La of cheap places to travel in December. We'll dodge the pricey pitfalls of peak season travel and unearth the hidden gems where your dollars stretch like yoga pants after Thanksgiving dinner.

So, buckle up your seatbelts and prepare to take notes faster than a college student during finals week, as we dive into the art of traveling more for less during the most wonderful time of the year.

Contrary to popular belief, and much like finding an empty row on a flight, December can indeed be the golden ticket to budget travel. While the masses are draining their bank accounts faster than a blockbuster movie shatters box office records, the savvy traveler knows the true secret: off-peak travel.

As the year winds down, so do the prices of flights and accommodations in many coveted corners of the globe. The reason? It's simple economics – less demand equals lower prices. This is the time when hotels are emptier, flights have more vacant seats begging to be occupied, and tour operators are practically doing the cha-cha slide to entice travelers with deals.

Let's not forget the holiday packages that pop up like delightful ads during your favorite streaming binge. These bundles of joy often include flights, accommodations, and sometimes even a free breakfast – because nothing tastes better than complimentary eggs and bacon as you ponder over the money you've saved.

And then there's the undeniable charm of winter destinations. Some places are blanketed in snow, offering postcard-perfect scenes and activities that don't require you to sell a kidney on the black market. Think ice-skating in Central Park, sipping hot chocolate in a cozy European café, or catching the Northern Lights on a clear Arctic night – all without the premium price tag.

Factors to Consider When Looking for Cheap Places to Travel

Before you start dreaming of sugar plums and sandy beaches, let's get down to brass tacks. Finding a budget-friendly paradise in December is akin to snagging the last piece of pie at a family gathering – it requires strategy, timing, and a little bit of luck. Here are the key ingredients to cook up a trip that's as cost-effective as it is captivating.

The cost of living is the invisible hand that either gives you a high-five or a slap on the wrist. It's the day-to-day expenses – meals, souvenirs, perhaps a whimsical hat from a street vendor – that add up quicker than likes on a celebrity's vacation post. Opt for destinations where the cost of living is low, and your dollars will multiply like rabbits in spring.

Currency Exchange Rates: The Financial Forecast

Currency rates fluctuate more than a diva's mood swings, and they can have a major impact on your travel budget. Keep an eye on the exchange rates and plan your getaway when your currency is playing the strong, silent type – robust and reliable.

Local Transportation Costs: The Commuter's Conundrum

The price of getting from point A to B shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. Research local transportation options and costs. Sometimes, a city's metro system is your wallet's best friend, offering multi-day passes that are as valuable as finding an empty row on your international flight.

Seasonal Promotions: The Budget Traveler's Bonanza

'Tis the season for promotions, and travel deals are no exception. Airlines and hotels are like overzealous carolers, eager to share their offerings. Sign up for newsletters, set price alerts, and follow travel influencers who can't wait to spill the tea on the latest deals.

Just because it's winter in your neck of the woods doesn't mean it's the same elsewhere. In some countries, December is the peak season, while in others, it's the lull before the storm of tourists. Do your homework, and you'll find places where the "Welcome" mat is out, and prices are down.

If you're not careful, currency fluctuations can wash away your budget like a sandcastle at high tide. Use currency converters and financial apps to track trends and exchange money when rates are in your favor. It's like playing the stock market, but with more sunsets and less suits.

Top Cheap Destinations to Visit in December

Grab your map and a dart, my frugal friends, because we're about to pinpoint the places where your bank account can breathe a sigh of relief. December may be a time of giving, but that doesn't mean your savings account should be left out in the cold.

In Vietnam, the dong stretches further than a yoga instructor on a good day. Hanoi's street food scene is as affordable as it is delectable, offering dishes for less than the price of a latte back home. And let's not forget about the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, which, much like a classic holiday film, never gets old.

India is where your budget can truly sing, from the majestic peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed shores of Goa. The cost of living here is as friendly as the local hospitality, ensuring that you can enjoy a royal experience on a commoner's budget. Just remember, bargaining is not just encouraged; it's practically a sport.

South of the border lies a land where the pesos pack a punch. Whether you're lounging on the beaches of Cancun or exploring the ruins of Tulum, Mexico offers a wealth of experiences without the need for a treasure chest. Plus, the street tacos alone are worth the trip – affordable, delicious, and Instagram-worthy.

Colombia, a country that's been stepping out of the shadows and into the spotlight for all the right reasons, offers affordability without skimping on the scenery. From the colorful streets of Cartagena to the lush coffee region, your money goes far in this vibrant land. And the only thing stronger than the coffee is the value you'll get for your peso.

Portugal is Europe's not-so-secret gem where affordability meets charm. Lisbon's trams cost less than a fast-food meal, and the pastel de natas are a sweet deal. Porto's riverside wine cellars offer tastings that won't leave your wallet wincing, proving that luxury doesn't always have to come at a premium.

Greece in December is like a blockbuster hit without the summer crowds. The prices in Athens plunge as the temperature cools, making it the perfect time to explore ancient ruins without the hordes of tourists photobombing your shots. And the islands? Quiet, serene, and as affordable as a Greek god's toga.

Morocco is where the markets are as colorful as a Christmas tree and the prices as pleasing as the season's first snowfall. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara, your dirhams have the power to grant more wishes than a genie's lamp.

The land of the Pharaohs is not only rich in history but also in value. The Nile's eternal grace is matched only by the evergreen prices that make a trip to Egypt a wise decision any time of the year. And in December, you can marvel at the pyramids without the sweltering heat or the peak prices.

As we continue our quest for budget-friendly escapades, let's turn our attention to the alchemy of thriftiness. After all, a penny saved is a penny you can spend on a souvenir that's probably too large to fit in your suitcase. Here are some golden nuggets of wisdom to keep your wallet padded and your spirits high.

Booking Flights in Advance: The Early Bird Gets the Deal

It's an age-old tale, as timeless as the classics: the early bird catches the worm, or in our case, the unbelievable flight deal. Airlines often release their tickets at prices that seem like typos, and snagging these requires the foresight of a seasoned chess player. Set alerts, subscribe to fare trackers, and be ready to pounce like a cat on a laser pointer.

Using Travel SIM Cards for Affordable Communication

In an era where being offline is akin to being stranded on a deserted island, staying connected is key. But international roaming fees are the highway robbers of modern times. Enter the hero of our story: travel SIM cards. These little chips of communication gold ensure you can post your #TravelGoals without the fear of coming home to a phone bill that looks like a phone number.

Choosing Budget Accommodations: Sleep Soundly, Spend Wisely

The era of needing to stay at a five-star hotel to ensure a good night's sleep is as passé as flip phones. Today, budget accommodations don't necessarily mean a night spent questioning your life choices. Hostels have upped their game, Airbnb offers local experiences, and guesthouses provide the warmth of home. And if you're really adventurous, why not try a night or two in a monastery or a capsule hotel? It's like camping, but with better stories.

Eating Like a Local: Dine Fine on a Dime

Michelin stars are nice, but have you ever had street food that made you contemplate writing a heartfelt thank you note to the chef? Local eateries, food trucks, and market stalls offer authentic flavors without the gourmet price tag. Follow the locals to the spots where the lines are long, and the prices are not. Your taste buds and your budget will thank you.

Let's circle back to the humble travel SIM card, shall we? This isn't just about avoiding astronomical roaming fees; it's also about harnessing the power of apps and local data to find deals on the go. From last-minute lodging upgrades to finding that hole-in-the-wall restaurant with the best local delicacies, a travel SIM card is your gateway to savings and serendipity.

The trick to finding accommodations that are both inexpensive and incredible is to think outside the box – the hotel box, that is. Consider homestays where you can live with locals, or rental services that let you stay in a fully-furnished apartment. Not only do you save money, but you also gain a more authentic experience. It's like being a local, except with the added thrill of getting lost in a new city.

Now, let's waltz into the realm of cultural experiences, where the richness of a journey is measured not by the thread count in your hotel sheets, but by the tapestry of cultural tapestries you weave into your memory.

Free or Low-Cost Attractions: The Priceless Pursuits

Whoever said the best things in life are free must have been a traveler on a budget. Museums often have days when admission is gratis, historical sites sometimes don't cost a dime to admire, and walking city tours can be found where payment is purely tips-based. It's like a treasure hunt, where the prize is a newfound understanding of local culture and history.

Local Festivals and Events in December: The Festive Freebies

December is a month of celebrations, and what's better than festivities that are as free as your spirit ought to be on vacation? From Christmas markets in Europe to lantern festivals in Asia, these events offer a peek into the heart and soul of a place. And the only thing they'll cost you is the storage space on your phone from all the pictures you'll take.

Volunteering Opportunities: The Gift of Giving Back

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences come from giving rather than receiving. Volunteering opportunities abound for those looking to make a difference while traveling. It's a chance to connect with local communities and perhaps teach English, assist in wildlife conservation, or help out in a soup kitchen. The cost is nothing, but the value is immense – a mutual exchange of goodwill that's worth its weight in gold.

The holiday season, with its spirit of giving, can extend to travel deals that seem like a gift from the travel gods. Here's how to unwrap these deals with the finesse of a child on Christmas morning:

Your quest for the Holy Grail of travel deals begins in the digital realm. Websites and apps are the modern-day marketplaces for bargain hunters. Sign up for alerts, scour discount travel sites, and don't forget to peek at the social media pages of airlines and hotels, where exclusive deals may be shared.

Timing is everything, and when it comes to booking travel, it's a dance with dates. Flexibility is your partner in this tango; being open to flying mid-week or on holidays can lead to savings that make you feel like you've won the lottery.

To package or not to package, that is the question. Package deals can be a wallet-friendly option, bundling flights, accommodations, and sometimes even meals into one neat price. But for those who prefer the road less traveled, going independent can lead to unexpected savings and adventures. It's the difference between a set menu and à la carte – both can be satisfying, depending on your appetite for adventure and savings.

As we prepare to bid adieu to our budget travel narrative, let's ensure you're equipped with the final pearls of wisdom to embark on your December journey. After all, an ounce of preparation is worth a kilo of cure, especially when it comes to travel.

Winter travel means cozy layers, but it doesn't mean you have to pack your entire wardrobe. Opt for versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Think thermal wear, a reliable jacket, and accessories that double as both fashionable and functional. And remember, in the land of luggage, less is more – especially when airline baggage fees loom like the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

While we all wish for holidays filled with nothing but joy and Instagram-worthy moments, the wise traveler knows that sometimes things go awry. Travel insurance is that guardian angel that you hope to never need, but will be eternally grateful for if you do. Look for policies that cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and, yes, even lost luggage.

Safety is also paramount, as the only ice you want to encounter is in a festive drink, not on a slippery sidewalk. Keep abreast of local weather and safety advisories, and always have a plan B for transportation in case Jack Frost gets a little too nippy.

In the grand debate of international SIM cards versus local SIM cards, consider your needs and length of stay. International SIM cards offer convenience, but local SIMs can be cheaper and provide better coverage. It's the classic traveler's conundrum, akin to choosing between window and aisle seats.

Diving deeper into travel insurance, don't let the fine print intimidate you. Ensure your policy fits your destination and the activities you're planning. Are you going to ski down the Alps? Make sure your policy doesn't leave you out in the cold if you take a tumble.

As for SIM cards, think of them as your lifeline to the world. They keep you connected to loved ones, help you navigate foreign lands, and ensure you can always find the nearest spot for a warm meal or a cold treat. Research ahead of time to find the best option for your travel style and budget.

And there you have it, fellow globetrotters – a compendium of tips, tricks, and tidbits to make your December travels as cost-effective as they are exhilarating. As you set forth on your adventures, remember that the true value of travel isn't found in the price tag, but in the breadth of experiences and the wealth of memories you create.

As the curtains close on our budget travel guide, we hope you're now armed with the knowledge to make your December journey both merry and bright. From the steamy street stalls of Vietnam to the ancient allure of Egypt, the world is brimming with affordable wonders waiting to be explored.

So go forth, explore, and let the spirit of adventure be your guide. And when you return, full of stories and souvenirs that didn't break the bank, remember that the greatest gift you can give yourself is the experience etched into your soul – the experience of seeing the world.

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planing to travel to Europe ? Check out our eSIM Europe .

Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.

As we've traversed the globe together through the written word, you may find yourself pondering some lingering questions. Fear not, for I shall endeavor to illuminate the murky waters of travel uncertainties with the beacon of knowledge.

The skies are generous in December, offering budget-friendly wings to those who know where to look. Southeast Asia beckons with open arms and cheap fares, particularly to countries like Vietnam and Thailand, where the cost of a flight often pales in comparison to the richness of experience. Central America, with gems like Guatemala and Nicaragua, also tends to have more wallet-friendly skies. And let's not forget the domestic deals within the U.S., where cities like Las Vegas and Orlando often see a dip in prices as they gear up for the holiday rush.

Accommodations need not be a financial sinkhole on your travels. Embrace the world of hostels, which have shed their spartan skins and embraced a more boutique charm. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com can be your allies in this quest. Alternatively, platforms like Airbnb allow you to snag a local abode for a fraction of the hotel price. And for the truly adventurous, services like Couchsurfing can open doors to free stays and new friendships.

Indeed, the humble SIM card can be a traveler's best friend. For those jet-setting internationally, consider purchasing a global SIM card before departure to avoid the scramble upon landing. Companies like OneSimCard and WorldSIM offer options that work in multiple countries. If you're staying longer in one place, a local SIM card can be a boon for your budget. Just ensure your phone is unlocked and ready to accept new cellular relationships.

Free activities abound for the keen-eyed traveler. In Europe, wander the festive markets; in Asia, take part in local religious ceremonies or explore the myriad of temples. Many cities offer free walking tours – just look for the guides with the brightly colored umbrellas. Nature, too, does not charge admission, so hikes, beach days, and park picnics are always on the budget-friendly menu.

Aside from the aforementioned travel SIM cards, savvy travelers can also lean heavily on free Wi-Fi, which is becoming as common as a tourist with a camera. Cafés, libraries, and even some public squares offer this service. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber allow you to call and text over Wi-Fi, and social media platforms can keep you connected with those back home without spending a dime.

Did this guide help light the way to your next December adventure? Drop a comment below with your own savvy travel tips or questions. And if you crave more travel insights sprinkled with a dash of humor, sign up for our newsletter. Until next time, may your travels be many and your expenses be few!

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Cheap Places to Travel in December: 10 Affordable Getaways from Tennessee to Colorado

n the warm waters in an underrated beach town off Florida’s Gulf Coast to getting immersed in Civil War history in southeast Tennessee, a getaway in December doesn’t have to break the bank . We’ve combed through all our trivago data to help you find the most affordable cities across the country this month.

If you’re in need of some extra bang for your buck as you plan your upcoming winter vacation , here are 10 inexpensive places to travel in the USA this December.

*Flexibility is critical during times like these, and if you do need to travel, browse deals with free cancellation on trivago. The prices were checked in November 2021 and might change according to search and booking dates.

10. Have Family Fun in Bowling Green, Kentucky

From all-American car-centric museums and high-speed go-karting to underground cavern boat tours and Civil War heritage trails, the charming southern Kentucky town of Bowling Green has something to offer every member of the family. Best of all? It’s one of the US’s best cheap places to travel this December.

Where to stay

An indoor pool makes year-round swimming a welcome reality for guests checking in to the Sleep Inn Bowling Green in the winter months. Set right off the interstate, this casual property is convenient for exploring some of Bowling Green’s major attractions, including the National Corvette Museum—free for kids four and under—and the NCM Motorsports Park and Kartplex, which are less than two miles away.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Kentucky

9. experience the best of powder country in south fork, colorado.

Experience the best of powder country with the kids in tow at South Fork, one of our favorite cheap places to travel in December. At 8,209 feet, the tiny southern Colorado town comes alive in the winter months as snowbirds descend upon the area—it’s just 20 miles from Wolf Creek Ski Area that’s known for its record-breaking annual snowfall levels.

Whether you’re heading to the pistes, snow-shoeing, or in search of the best alpine lakes to go ice fishing, the South Fork region has it all. Thanks to the lack of crowds , travelers can expect a winter vacation filled with endless serene hiking trails through thriving wild forests, plus sledding and ice skating.

From rustic wooden cabins to spacious lodge suites, The Spruce Lodge is affordable for both solo travelers and large families looking to experience the best of Colorado’s winter activities without breaking the bank.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Colorado

8. explore the wonder of the black hills in rapid city, south dakota.

Known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore, Rapid City serves as a great, affordable base for travelers looking to explore South Dakota’s stunning Black Hills .

Get off-the-beaten-track at one of our preferred cheap places to visit in December with a (free) trip to Chapel in the Hills, a replica of a renowned 12th-century Norwegian chapel. For an Instagram-worthy selfie, check out the murals and graffiti that adorn Art Alley in downtown Rapid City.

Less than an hour’s drive from Mount Rushmore, the Cambria Hotel Rapid City is excellent for family-friendly getaway s. Pull-out sofas at this all-suite property offer extra space, while an indoor pool and hot tub are ideal for warming up after a day outdoors. A complimentary airport shuttle provides easy access to the Rapid City Regional Airport, conveniently located 10 miles away.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - South Dakota

7. hop on a panoramic train ride to the grand canyon in williams, arizona.

When it comes to cheap places to visit in December on the West Coast, the historic Wild West town of Williams is one of the best. Located an hour from Grand Canyon National Park , this economical Arizona option may be referred to as a gateway to the Grand Canyon – however, it’s also rich in pioneer history.

For a literal walk back in time (the town was originally founded in 1876 by sheep and cattle ranchers), sign up for a historical walking tour through downtown Williams that was once part of the renowned Route 66. Tired of hiking? Hop on the Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic train ride to the Grand Canyon.

Choose from converted caboose and railcar-themed suites at the Canyon Motel & RV Park , a conveniently situated Route 66 motel. Set on 13 acres of pine forest, this sprawling property also offers a heated indoor pool, fire pits, and garden patio, allowing guests to have a cozy vacation no matter the time of year.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Arizona

6. soak up the sun in carlsbad, california.

While inexpensive isn’t typically synonymous with California, a trip to Carlsbad will convince you otherwise. With endless days of sunshine and uninterrupted ocean views, this Southern California city is one of the best cheap places to travel in December with the entire family.

Apart from soaking up the sun, keep the kids occupied with a day full of guaranteed adventure and fun at LEGOLAND . For nature enthusiasts, the San Diego Botanic Garden features a first-hand look at succulent gardens, bamboo groves, and the West Coast’s largest interactive garden for kids.

A nine-minute walk from the nearest beach, the Motel 6, Carlsbad Beach offers guests excellent value for their money, especially when traveling with the little ones—kids 17 and under stay for free. An outdoor pool, coin-operated laundry, and free Wi-Fi all make for an inexpensive West Coast winter family vacation .

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - California

5. learn civil war history in monroe, tennessee.

The charming Southeast Tennessee community of Monroe is another one of our favorite cheap places to travel in December. With the rugged mountains serving as a striking background, visitors can choose to spend their winter vacation snow-shoeing or cross- country skiing in Cherokee National Forest, taking a scenic drive along the 43-mile long Cherohala Skyway, or digging into some dry-cured country ham, the area’s specialty.

Where to Stay

Checking in to Overton Motel means easy access to the surrounding parks and hiking trails – including Dale Hollow Lake and Cummins Falls State Park, which are a 30-minute drive. For the Civil War buffs, the Overton County Heritage Museum is only a two-minute drive from this simple stay.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Tennessee

4. increase your winter vitamin sea intake in redington beach, florida.

An underrated beach paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast , Redington Beach is an ideal inexpensive December destination for travelers looking for a beach getaway minus the crowds. With afternoon temperatures averaging in the mid-70s throughout December and nary another soul in sight, this charming beach town makes for one of the best cheap places to travel in December.

After a day spent frolicking in the emerald Gulf waters, head to The Conch Republic Grill or Seabreeze Island Grill for a taste of fresh Key West shrimp and oysters on the half shell. This idyllic oasis is also the perfect choice for a Christmas getaway—annual celebrations include holiday boat parades and fireworks.

Offering privacy and convenience, this contemporary 1-bedroom vacation rental is within walking distance to the nearest beach along the Gulf of Mexico. A private yard and full kitchen are ideal for more extended stays, especially when traveling with toddlers.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Florida

3. immerse in a winter wonderland in aurora, colorado.

With December highs averaging in the mid-40s all month long, Aurora serves as one of the most affordable places to travel in December for powder enthusiasts. Just an hour from the nearest ski resorts, this Gateway to the Rockies town transforms into a winter wonderland as the temperatures drop.

After an exciting day hitting the slopes, head back into town where an evening of ice skating at The Pond at Southlands (the region’s largest outdoor skating rink) awaits. Nature-lovers shouldn’t miss stopping by the Morrison Nature Center, a sprawling 250-acre nature preserve offering full moon hikes and wildlife watches—sightings of deer, cougars, and bald eagles are common occurrences in the winter months.

Complimentary breakfast, coffee, and parking all make the Comfort Inn Denver Southeast Area a fantastic budget option for exploring not just the greater Denver area, but the quintessential Colorado outdoors. Opt for the suites for full kitchens and separate living areas.

2. Explore the Historic Route 66 in Kingman, Arizona

A year-round temperate climate makes Kingman the perfect winter weather destination for East Coast travelers looking to escape the heavy snow. If you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and museum hopping, this northwest Arizona town is one of our favorite cheap places to travel in December.

Offering a comprehensive look at the history of America’s most famed road route—also known as the Mother Road—the Arizona Route 66 Museum is not to be missed. An underrated destination for oenophiles, Kingman boasts several local wineries such as Cella Winery, Little Old Wine Drinkers Winery, and Stetson Winery – all offering wine tastings and tours.

Just off the historic Route 66, El Trovatore Motel provides easy access to the area’s best attractions—the Powerhouse Visitor Center, Bonelli House, and Mohave Museum of History and Arts are all within a three- minute drive from this classic motel.

You’re also sure to never get lost—its 100-foot-long neon sign has served as a beacon in the night sky for weary Route 66 travelers looking for a quiet place to rest their head since first opening in 1939.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Kingman

1. find plenty of beach fun in lake worth beach, florida.

Situated on Palm Beach island, Lake Worth Beach rounds out our list of cheap places to travel in December. With temperatures averaging in the late-70s all month long, this quiet Florida town is perfect for travelers looking for a beach getaway minus the crowds—and price tag—of Miami .

Tee off at Lake Worth Municipal Golf Course—with views of the Lake Worth Lagoon, it’s one of the area’s most scenic golf courses. Whet your appetite for fresh seafood and island-themed cocktails at Dave’s Last Resort & Raw Bar. Serving up some of the area’s best oysters for over two decades, the conch ceviche, garlic steamed clams and clam chowder are not to be missed.

Guests can expect a full kitchen, a dedicated parking spot and flat- screen TV during their stay at Peacock Paradise , a centrally-located 1- bedroom apartment rental . Set in downtown Lake Worth Beach, this cozy property is within walking distance to several of the town’s renowned restaurants and bars, as well as the beach and Lake Worth Lagoon.

The 10 best places to visit in December

In December, the world transforms. The Northern Hemisphere sees winter's touch with snow and chill, while the Southern Hemisphere basks in summer's warmth.

Travelers can choose anything from snow-capped landscapes ideal for winter sports to sunlit beaches for relaxation. As the year-end approaches, many places come alive with holiday preparations, each offering unique cultural experiences.

Whether it's the allure of festive markets , the thrill of outdoor adventures, or simply exploring new terrains, December provides something for every traveler.

But where should you go? Here are the 10 best destinations to visit in December.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Imagine a place where the winter comes alive — that's Breckenridge in December. Picture world-class ski slopes, cozy family sleigh rides and thrilling snowmobile adventures. Not to mention, the history here is captivating. December's Ullr Fest is also a special treat for travelers. The festival is a local favorite held in honor of Ullr, the Norse god of snow. (We're hoping he blesses us with plenty of powder.)

There's also plenty to explore in nearby towns like Frisco and Leadville; less than an hour away, you can take a rejuvenating dip at Indian Hot Springs. Or, weather permitting, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to marvel at its natural beauty.

Related: The best ski resorts in the US for your next trip to the slopes

If you're still in Breckenridge come January, you're in for a spectacle. During the International Snow Sculpture Championships, artists carve massive snow blocks into stunning creations.

TPG tip : Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a spectacular Rocky Mountain retreat with premium skiing, winter escapades, boating, mountain biking and year-round family-friendly outdoor activities. It's available for about $205 in December, or 21,000 World of Hyatt Points per night.

Truckee, California

Of all the best places to visit in December in the USA, Truckee is one that tops our list. Come wintertime, the destination transforms into a snow-draped haven. From peaceful snowshoe treks to exciting family sledding spots, there's something for everyone here. For skiing enthusiasts, some of the region's best slopes await. Beyond winter sports, the stunning beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe is a must-see.

After a day in the snow, explore downtown Truckee. It offers museums full of rich local history, and its numerous breweries and eateries provide a taste of the town's culture. You can even opt for a guided tour of the town.

Related: From hidden gems to big names: Here are 11 of California's best ski resorts

TPG tip : Book a stay at SpringHill Suites Truckee for about 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $282 per night.

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Seeking a warm winter getaway? Dorado sits on Puerto Rico 's stunning Caribbean coastline, and it boasts white-sand beaches perfect for surfing, swimming and many family-friendly adventures.

A short drive away, San Juan immerses you in a vibrant blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Here, you can experience cultural festivities throughout the year, savor delicious local dishes and sway to the rhythms of salsa, bomba and plena echoing from the city's picturesque squares.

Beyond that, the region offers thrilling activities like hang gliding and paragliding. For those keen to explore, guided tours can lead you to hidden beaches and lush tropical paths. Don't miss out on the YuYu Cave — a captivating and educational spot for young adventurers who love nature.

TPG tip : Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a great home base for exploring the area and is available from $1,645 or 215,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

During the holidays, Zurich becomes a festive paradise. Streets shimmer with lights, and Christmas markets spring to life. Highlights include Burkliplatz's candle dipping, the enchanting "Marlitram" fairy tale tram and the singing choirs at Werdmuhleplatz, accompanied by its famed "Singing Christmas Tree."

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, boasts a radiant tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. The nostalgic Dorfli market in Old Town offers a vintage charm with fondue and artisanal goods.

For a warm treat, stop by Cafe Felix and choose from a medley of hot chocolate iterations. Or, savor history at the luxury confectioner Sprungli, which has been in operation since 1836. For elevated dining, Restaurant Felsenegg provides fondue with a stunning city view.

Beyond these, visitors can skate, toboggan or take a scenic fondue eTukTuk ride. Zurich's thermal baths and saunas overlooking Lake Zurich promise relaxation. For artsy souls, the "Herzebaracke" floating theater offers diverse performances by the lake from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

TPG tip : Stay near the heart of town at Crowne Plaza Zurich for around $146 or 30,000 IHG rewards points per night.

In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle. Mie Prefecture's Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination lets guests immerse themselves in LED light fields and explore captivating light tunnels.

Meanwhile, Kobe's touching Luminarie shines in remembrance of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake victims. December also welcomes ski enthusiasts as Japan's winter sports season begins.

From the breathtaking views at Shiga Kogen Ski Area in Nagano — with its Olympic-endorsed slopes — to the sought-after resorts in Niigata — easily accessible from Tokyo — skiing here is a dream. But there's more to Niigata than just skiing: Indulge in its renowned hot springs and savor its exquisite seafood, rice and sake.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Conrad Tokyo for $389 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Dubai in December is a whole different vibe. The scorching heat takes a backseat, making way for cooler days. This means beach picnics, outdoor adventures and late-night strolls become even more inviting. And then there's the festive buzz. Everywhere you look, from the towering skyscrapers to the cozy lanes, Dubai sparkles with holiday decorations.

It's not just about twinkling lights, though. The city pulses with events — think bustling markets, lively performances and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. Against the backdrop of the vast desert and the iconic skyline, the festive cheer feels even more special. So, if you're dreaming of a mix of relaxation, retail therapy and rich culture, Dubai is your go-to.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk for $586 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, or stay at the lavish Atlantis The Royal .

The Bahamas

Traveling to the Bahamas becomes a breeze this December, thanks to several new flight routes. Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Nassau. For travelers on the West Coast, there's good news, too: American Airlines is rolling out direct flights from Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau.

Not to be left out, JetBlue is introducing a weekly nonstop service from LA. Once you touch down, the Bahamas offers a plethora of experiences. Dive into the clear waters, explore the world's third-largest coral reef or swim with the wild pigs.

And if you're into sailing, December is the prime time to visit. Events like The National Family Island Regatta showcase the region's rich maritime heritage.

TPG tip : Book a room at the French Leave Resort for $749 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Or, for sheer indulgence, opt for the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar , where rates start from $715 per night.

Morristown, Arizona

Just a quick 50-minute drive from Phoenix, Morristown is the perfect desert escape in December. The weather's a treat with comfy temperatures in the 60s and 70s — a lovely switch from Arizona's intense summer and the cold weather of other destinations.

If you love the outdoors, you'll be in your element. Morristown's desert beauty is a big draw, with opportunities to go hiking or 4x4 riding.

At night, the town's clear December skies, away from bright city glows, offer some top-notch stargazing. Witness the breathtaking Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, peaking on Dec. 14-15 and 22-23, respectively. And there's more to the celestial show: Mark your calendar for the New Moon on Dec. 13, the Winter Solstice on Dec. 22, and the Full Moon on Dec. 27.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which is an American Express Fine Hotels + Resort partner. Platinum cardholders receive 12 p.m. check-in (when available), room upgrade at check-in (when available), daily breakfast for two, $100 property credit to be used during the stay, complimentary Wi-Fi and 4 p.m. checkout guaranteed.

New York City

New York City in December is an enchanting experience. Imagine skating below the gleaming Rockefeller Center tree, surrounded by the city's sparkling skyline. Fifth Avenue transforms into a festive paradise, with its department stores showcasing captivating holiday window displays.

Brooklyn's Dyker Heights is a must-visit for those who admire festive lights. The neighborhood's homes are grandly decorated for the holidays, and dedicated bus tours guide visitors through the most brilliantly lit blocks.

But the magic doesn't stop there. You can also catch a classic holiday show at Radio City Music Hall, wander through the winter markets at Bryant Park or Central Park, and marvel at the giant holiday ornaments scattered throughout the city.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the Park South Hotel for $480 or 23,000 Hyatt World points, or check out TPG's favorite hotels in New York City .

December is the perfect month to explore Uganda. The landscapes are at their greenest, yet the weather stays dry. This combination is ideal for gorilla tracking, an experience you won't forget. Boat safaris also shine in December. As water sources become a focal point in the dry terrain, spotting the Big Five becomes even more thrilling.

While Uganda is gaining attention, it's still a quieter East African destination. Venture beyond the natural wonders, too. The capital, Kampala, is a city full of surprises. From the lively Equator Bar in the Sheraton to the unique crocodile tail delicacy at The Lawns, there's much to savor. And if you're into art, the Afriart Gallery showcases contemporary pieces.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Kampala for $170 or 37,000 Hilton Honors points.

5 Cheap Places To Travel In December 2022

You’ll find the DESTINATION, QUICK WEATHER RECAP & A SPECIAL TIP to make this getaway even cheaper at the end of the text.

Published: Nov 08, 2022 • min read

5 Cheap Places To Travel In December 2022

December and the Christmas period are here again. Whether it’s a vacation with the family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, a romantic getaway with your significant other 💑, or a fun weekend with friends 👩🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏻, it’s the time of the year when traveling booms. However, as much as traveling is fun, the paying part is the one everyone would like to skip. To lower the damages to your wallet, here we’ll share a list of budget-friendly destinations to travel to in the last month of this year. Let’s dive in!

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Located in the heart of Europe, Prague always takes the tops of Christmas must-visit lists. If it’s not for the globally famous Christmas markets (you must be a Grinch not to like them), it’s definitely a number one choice for a cheap getaway. Also… don’t forget about the snow!

WEATHER IN DECEMBER:

RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

If you’re a fan of a warmer Christmas, Mexico can be a good balance for that and the pricing. Even though it’s a kingdom of all-inclusive resorts, which might make it seem like one of the more expensive options, it has many low costs to offer. Since it’s located in a convenient location for both Americas, you’ll not only save on the hotels but also find budget flights.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Orlando will meet you with pleasant weather and a bunch of Christmas attractions to spend your time at. Not without reason, Disney is exactly there… Festive events will be all over the place. You’ll have fewer lines if you do not go precisely during Christmas - it’s super overcrowded during that period, but the rest of it will give you the highest quality celebration.

CAIRO, EGYPT

Who wouldn’t like to experience a completely another culture? Although a Muslim country, Egypt celebrates Christmas even twice. That’s what we call a real party. However, you should try and go there for the New Year. Hotels organize fancy dinners, you can hop on a Nile Cruise or see the famous Giza Pyramids lit up in other colors because of the fireworks. And the most important aspect: Egypt is well-known for its low prices & amazing amenities.

BALI, INDONESIA

We’re finishing up exotically. Bali has been one of the most popular destinations last few years. But did you consider visiting it during the festive season? Even though the thought of December being the rainy season might put you away from this thought, we all know well: the rain is often & strong, but it lasts for a short period. Considering that your Christmas resort & dinner will barely cost anything… why not consider it? The hotels won’t leave you bored with their special offers & celebrations, you can count on us.

Keep in mind: this year, accommodation prices have been affected by a bunch of factors, and it’s way more complicated to find a good deal than it was before. Book your hotels using RatePunk.

Here’s an example of how much you can save with one click after installing it. One week in Bali, savings of 314 euros for the same room:

You can download it for FREE by clicking the button below 👇

Nov 08, 2022

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The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

By Caitlin Morton

When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Best Places to Travel in December Salzburg at Christmas

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

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Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

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6. Barbados

Whether you want a relaxing all-inclusive stay or a vibrant vacation filled with dining and nightlife, Barbados has you covered. Nowhere is that more evident than the pedestrian-friendly South Coast, which is teeming with new resorts and restaurants. The O2 Beach Club & Spa is an all-inclusive resort set on the white sands of Dover Beach, with three pools, six dining options, seven bars, and the Acqua spa, featuring the only hammam treatment room on the island. It joins other luxurious South Coast hotels, including Sandals and Sea Breeze Beach House . If you can pull yourself away from the resort pools, head along the coast to Worthing Square Food Garden, an outdoor food hall with 20 vendors serving dishes from around the Caribbean. Or stroll down the mile-long boardwalk for easy access to ocean-front food and drinks at local favorites like Champers, Salt Café, Tiki Bar, and Chill Café & Bar. — Kevin Gray

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A favorite of adventure travelers for its rainforests and divers who explore the Great Blue Hole and expansive barrier reef, Belize offers an abundance of casual spots and a handful of luxe resorts. The latest arrival is Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection Hotel , in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, opened mid-2021 with plans to add to its already extensive guest room, suite, and oceanfront villa accommodations. Major airlines are also recognizing the destination's potential with nonstop flights and convenient connections from most U.S. cities. In addition to United and Delta's nonstop flights from Houston and Atlanta, respectively, Alaska Airlines added nonstop service from Los Angeles and Seattle to Belize City in November, and Frontier Airlines will start weekly nonstop flights from Denver and Orlando. — Patricia Doherty

8. Budapest, Hungary

Very few places in the world capture both old-world charm and elegant modernity like Hungary's capital city, and Budapest's latest 130-room luxury hotel, Matild Palace , is a shining example. The neo-baroque palace-turned-hotel, which opened last summer in the city's District V, is a UNESCO-protected site that once housed the city's royalty. The hotel is now home to Wolfgang Punk's famed restaurant, Spago , the first of its kind in central Europe. It also hosts the Duchess bar — a rooftop "liquor library" that mixes craft cocktails using local wines and pálinka, Hungarian fruit brandy, which can be enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the Danube river. Surrounded by 22 wine regions, Budapest is a city for oenophiles. Enjoy a glass of Kékfrankos or Kadarka in the Castle District's newly opened wine bar, Takler Borbár Buda , founded by one of the country's renowned winemaking families. Don't leave the city without visiting Marlou , a biodynamic wine bar near the Hungarian State Opera, and Portobello , an unassuming coffee and natural wine bar around the corner from Matild Palace. — Stephanie Andrews

9. Burgundy, France

The region of Burgundy is known for — you guessed it — its Burgundy wine, but French wine isn't the only reason Burgundy is a must-visit in 2022. In the spring, the region's capital city of Dijon will welcome the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (International City of Gastronomy and Wine), an expansive complex with a cooking school, a new hotel, a handful of restaurants, and a wine cellar with over 250 by-the-glass offerings. The new project is perfectly situated at the starting point of Burgundy's famed wine route — Route des Grands Crus — which runs from Dijon to Santenay and produces some of the country's most well-regarded wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. — Evie Carrick

10. British Virgin Islands

Within the Caribbean, the 60 islands that comprise the British Virgin Islands have long held the reputation of luxury draped in relaxation. And now it's doubling down on that brand of island spirit with Richard Branson's second private island, the 125-acre Moskito Island that opened in October and sits right across from his first BVI paradise, Necker Island (which received a serious upgrade when it reopened last year after a two-year closure). The new destination will eventually have 10 private estates that can be rented through Virgin Limited Edition , but among the ones already available are Point Estate, starting at $17,500 a night, and Oasis Estate for $19,000. But Moskito isn't the only shiny new reason to visit BVI. Proving the area's resilience following the devastation after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Saba Rock , the private island long known for its diving, went through a complete reconstruction before reopening in October; the Bitter End Yacht Club reopened in December with BVI's first over-the-water bungalows; and Oil Nut Bay will expand in early 2022 with new villas, a watersports center, and spa. Also on tap for 2022, the solar-powered White Bay Villas and new hilltop suites at Long Bay Beach Resort . And with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returning in the spring of 2022 after being canceled for two years, BVI is proving it's truly back and stronger than ever. — Rachel Chang

11. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

You're likely to glimpse Europe's pro athlete and yachting crowds at Marriott's four hotels on the Costa Smeralda, the glitzy Italian destination known for its Caribbean-like beaches and luxury resorts. Its glamorous Hotel Cala di Volpe has gradually been unveiling room renovations alongside new dining options, including its Harrods Suite, with a roof terrace and sea-facing plunge pool, and BeefBar 's first Italian outpost. The entire area is one big " Billionaire Experience ," but Formula One and entertainment mogul Flavio Briatore snagged the term for his new dining and nightlife venue in designer shopping destination Porto Cervo. For more of a low-key, family-friendly escape, the Baglioni Resort Sardinia opened an hour south in San Teodoro in June, overlooking the stunning Tavolara Marine Reserve . — Nina Ruggiero

12. Crete, Greece

The Greek Islands have long been a perennial favorite vacation destination for discerning travelers, and Crete, the largest of the 227 islands in the archipelago, deserves a spot atop your must-see list. Yes, it's a place where you can find the white-washed buildings and blue roofs you've lusted after on Instagram for years, and a spot where you can dive into the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean at every turn. And of course you can dig deep into both history and mythology as humans have lived on the island since the 7th millennium B.C ., not to mention the fact that Crete is the birthplace of Zeus . It's little surprise then, with all this beauty and history, that Crete continues to harbor a rich creative community, mostly centered in the neighborhood of Chania. There, visitors can peruse works in museums like the Mediterranean Architecture Center , or seek out unique pieces in galleries like the Municipal Art Gallery or the Redd Gallery . To visit Crete, hop aboard a sailing with Silversea , which takes guests to Crete and several other stellar islands, or book a stay at the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort , named one of the Top 10 Greece Resort Hotels in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards, 2021. — Stacey Leasca

13. Walt Disney World

The " World's Most Magical Celebration " — Walt Disney World's 18-month-long 50th anniversary event that kicked off on Oct. 1 — continues through 2022 with enchanting touches and highly anticipated ride and hotel openings. Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser will begin offering its immersive, two-night adventures in a galaxy far, far away on March 1. The interactive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will have guests wielding lightsabers, sleeping on the ship, brushing shoulders with Star Wars characters, eating intergalactic cuisine, and maybe even going on a secret mission, making this a truly unique experience that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Other 2022 openings include the Guardians of the Galaxy : Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster at Epcot, slated for summer. — Elizabeth Rhodes

14. Doha, Qatar

As we ask ourselves what cities of the future should look like, we naturally look around for examples. Places like Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York City seem to fit the description on paper, but I'd argue that no city better encapsulates that definition than Doha, the capital of Qatar. There is so much to discover — from East-West/West-East , a series of four steel monoliths created by sculptor Richard Serra to the Museum of Islamic Art , the massive 560,000-square-foot gallery. Eat at Syrian comfort food spot Damasca One, Em Sherif a rooftop spot that serves up authentic regional dishes, and the lively corner restaurant Nourlaya Contemporary for Sri Lankan cuisine. Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Doha or Banyan Tree Doha . (Read Robinson's full dispatch on Doha in the July 2021 edition of Travel + Leisure) — Whitney Robinson

15. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Auld Reekie is buzzing with new energy. The highly anticipated Hotel W , designed by Jestico and Whiles in conjunction with Allan Murray Architects, is opening next winter. And several other hotels have recently opened in and around the city — Marine North Berwick , the Market Street hotel , Rusacks St. Andrews , and ship-turned-luxury-hotel Fingal . Gleneagles Townhouse , a first-ever city outpost from the famed Gleneagles estate, is opening in the spring. St James Quarter, a developing area of the city, and where Hotel W is being built, is opening next year with 85 shops, 30 restaurants, and a cinema. New in whisky is the September christening of Johnnie Walker Princes Street . And promising to shake up the scotch scene in the capital city is Leith Distillery , opening in the summer. — Scott Bay

16. Finger Lakes, New York

The Finger Lakes have bolstered their wellness and culinary offerings in recent years, carving out a name for themselves in the luxury travel realm. Inns of Aurora , comprising five historic mansions, debuted a holistic wellness facility in 2021 — set on 350 acres overlooking Cayuga Lake, complete with hydrotherapy pools, meditation areas, and a farm fresh cafe. Forty miles west of Cayuga, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua — situated on, yes, Canandaigua Lake — recently unveiled the Willowbrook Spa, which boasts lakeside barrel sauna sessions among other innovative treatments. Sandwiched between Cayuga and Canandaigua lakes is Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the Finger Lakes wine trails (this might be riesling country, but don't knock the lighter-bodied reds till you try 'em) and foodie draws like the 14-seat F.L.X. Table . Travelers visiting in the coming year will also see the Finger Lakes festival roster return in full force, including Rochester's Lilac Festival in May and International Jazz Festival in July, as well as attractions for the historically inclined road tripper, like Cayuga County's celebration of Harriet Tubman's birth through a number of walking tours and activations rolled out through 2022. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

17. Franklin, Tennessee

Despite its count of more than 80,000 year-round residents, the very walkable Franklin firmly grasps onto its small-town charms , starting with a quintessentially quaint downtown chock-full of shops and restaurants finding shelter in brick storefronts lining the sidewalks. The uninitiated might know this place for its past — Civil War museums, battleground sites, and historical markers telling the stories of a slave market, race riots, and Black soldiers in the U.S. Colored Troop division of the army all offer points of education and reflection. But the southern city has many modern-day draws as well — for starters, an exciting food and drink scene that includes the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Arrington Vineyards , the largest winery in the region. Musical events and venues abound, too: The Pilgrimage Music Festival is one of the biggest in the state, and the 7,500-seat FirstBank Amphitheater , newly opened inside a former rock quarry, has welcomed the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Santana to its stage. There's also Leiper's Fork , a quirky-cool enclave filled with antique shops and art galleries. Even more brand-new to the scene is Southall , a 325-acre farm and inn with 62 rooms and suites and 16 cottages opening this June. The lush setting amid rolling hills makes active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking), wellness pursuits (a spa, meditation, yoga, and two outdoor pools), and nourishing food (the restaurant uses ingredients grown, raised, and foraged on the property) easy to find. All of this and more lie just a short, 30-minute drive from bustling Nashville, making it tempting to tack onto a visit to the capital city. — Alisha Prakash

18. Galápagos Islands

The world's largest marine biosphere reserve will expand more than 20,000 square miles next year thanks to a recent presidential decree . The conservation measure seeks to combat illegal fishing by offering increased protection to the thousands of species that populate the archipelago's waters as well as a migration corridor stretching up to Costa Rica used by sharks, whales and other sea life. Come January, travelers can cruise this UNESCO-protected region on new nine-day adventures from Hurtigruten Expeditions and outfitter Metropolitan Touring aboard the 90-guest carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II. For a more intimate experience, passengers can book Aqua Expeditions ' seven-suite 164-foot superyacht, Aqua Mare, when it debuts in May. At the end of the year, eco-enthusiasts can sail to lesser-explored islands to spot giant tortoises, sea lions, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas on Quasar Expeditions ' new sustainable yacht — the 18-passenger M/Y Conservation featuring biodegradable amenities, renewable energy and a carbon-neutral footprint. Those with timid sea legs should check into the locally owned and run Montemar in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. — Nora Walsh

19. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs is kicking its signature self-care into high gear in the coming year. Taking a cue from its sister property, Sensei Lanai , the new Sensei Porcupine Creek is converting a 230-acre private estate into a luxury wellness experience in Rancho Mirage in 2022. In Palm Springs proper, Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza will celebrate Indigenous art and history alongside the new Spa at Séc-he , where visitors will soak in approximately 12,000-year-old hot springs. Nearby, Fleur Noire Hotel just opened its adults-only casitas and bungalows, with a speakeasy Champagne bar to follow. Unexpectedly, the desert has a budding surf scene — the former Wet 'n Wild waterpark is becoming Palm Springs Surf Club , with a state-of-the-art wave pool, spa, restaurant, and bar; DSRT Surf is set to open a 5.5-acre wave lagoon in Palm Desert; and Kelly Slater himself is bringing a green energy–powered wave basin to Coral Mountain , a proposed new wellness resort with a hotel and residences, set to open in La Quinta by 2023 pending city approvals. And for entertainment outside the splash zone, the $250-million Coachella Valley Arena will host hockey, concerts, and more live events by the end of the year. — Nina Ruggiero

20. Greenville, South Carolina

Once in the shadow of Charleston and Asheville, Greenville has emerged in recent years as a go-to destination in its own right — and it keeps giving travelers more reasons to visit. In 2022, the city of just over 70,000 people will welcome a luxury boutique hotel, unveil a new public gathering place, and build on its well-earned reputation as a culinary and craft beer hotspot. The long-awaited, 187-room Grand Bohemian hotel is expected to open its doors this spring, complete with a two-story restaurant and bar, art gallery, and spa. The 60-acre Unity Park will feature plenty of greenspace, an observation tower, baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking and biking trails. And recently opened restaurants, including French Laundry alum Drew Erickson's Camp , Urban Wren, Coral, and an outpost of Nashville's famous Prince's Hot Chicken located inside Yee-Haw Brewing will ensure you're well-fed while in town. — Kevin Gray

21. Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique

While South Africa and Uganda grab headlines for African wildlife, Mozambique has been quietly making strides protecting 17 percent of its land — including beaches, coral reefs, and islands — showcasing its dedication to its natural beauty both on land and underwater. Ever since the country's 16-year civil war ended in 1992, the southeastern African nation has been aiming to build back in the right ways. Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. It's here that the eco-luxury Banyan Tree resort chain has developed one of its most ambitious projects yet, a five-star property — accessible by jetty or helicopter — with 40 private pool villas that will be completely solar powered. Add to that a fish market restaurant with a 270-degree ocean view, the brand's trademark Banyan Tree Spa, and world-class diving, all in a too-pristine-to-believe beach setting, and this island escape is sure to draw attention away from its Indian Ocean neighbors when it opens at the end of 2022. — Rachel Chang

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Those wary of traveling internationally in 2022 will find solace in Jackson Hole, a mountain town with endless open space (Wyoming is the least populated state in the U.S.) and plenty to do. In the winter, life revolves around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , home to some of the nation's best skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, plan your trip around the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival (June 23-25) or head to the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. For easy access to the mountain town, travelers can hop on one of Aero's high-end, seasonal flights and stay at The Cloudveil off the Town Square or the Caldera House at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Evie Carrick

23. Kafue National Park, Zambia

Straddling three regions of Zambia, Kafue National Park is the largest (and oldest) in the country, measuring 8,648 miles. In the wildlife-rich Busanga plains — located in the secluded northern side of the park — spend the night at newly opened Chisa Busanga Camp in their bird's nest shaped rooms. Enjoy a silent safari, thanks to e-cruisers or an e-bike safari provided by the property. See wildlife from above with a hot air balloon safari from Shumba Camp or Busanga Bush Camp . Other accommodation offerings in the park include riverfront Ila Safari Lodge and Mukambi Safari Lodge . Both properties offer fishing, walking safaris, boat cruises, and have Instagram worthy pools (perfect for a soak and the traditional safari sundowner: a gin and tonic). — Mazuba Kapambwe

24. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, Lithuania has a lofty New Year's resolution. After a century of wars, Soviet rule, and, since the 1990s, independence, this UNESCO Creative City of Design is ready to cultivate a new identity — and it's doing so as one of two European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad, Serbia). The festivities commence in January, with thousands of concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year to celebrate Kaunas' history while cementing its path forward . Also this year, Kaunas will welcome the highly anticipated $30 million Science Island, Lithuania's first national science and innovation center designed by UK firm Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). By May, the city's former Magnus Hotel will reopen with sparkly new digs and a posh rooftop under the ibis Styles umbrella . This lively city is also a main stop on the recently unveiled 1,330-mile Forest Trail across the Baltics. And, a host of just-announced Ryanair flight routes, including Madrid to Kaunas, will make visiting this capital of culture a breeze. — Stephanie Vermillion

25. Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu may be less than two hours from Tokyo by plane, but it feels far from Honshū's well-beaten tourist circuit. The southwesternmost Japanese main island is still largely unexplored, providing those willing to venture off the beaten path with a much different Japan than the one they'll find in its cities. As a warm, subtropical island, Kyushu is home to long, golden beaches and some of Japan's best snorkeling and scuba diving. Inland, the country's most active volcano, Mt. Aso, feeds the island's myriad natural hot springs — many of which offer sea views. And while the island has accommodations that include both hot spring resorts and luxury beachfront villas , nothing tops a stay at Hirado Castle , which was recently restored and renovated to welcome visitors overnight . — Evie Carrick

26. Lanai, Hawaii

Wellness opportunities and cultural awareness are showcased along with luxury at Lanai's two Four Seasons resorts. At Sensei Lāna'i, A Four Seasons Resort , guests can now choose the Discover Sensei Experience , offering the ability to enjoy the retreat's amenities without joining the more comprehensive programs. New "Optimal Wellbeing" programs focus on improving performance in tennis and golf along with overall wellness. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is adding an observatory as part of "Love Lanai," featuring cultural experiences designed to share the island's rich heritage. The observatory program will center around the history of Pacific voyaging, native traditions, and astronomy. — Patricia Doherty

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Never bet against the house: The pandemic may have put a damper on Las Vegas, but the ever-on-the-move city is back in a big way for 2022. A massive new development on the Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas, opened in June, has three distinct Hilton properties under one enormous roof, not to mention more than 40 restaurants and bars, plus pools (plural), and a handful of $15,000-a-night villas . Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the Cromwell , and downtown's Circa Resort & Casino are also giving visitors fresh options on where to stay. The city's pro sports teams — also now plural — are drawing in fans. And off-Strip "immersive experiences," like the Omega Mart by Meow Wolf and the Illuminarium, both at Area15 , are lending an additional layer of things to do beyond the expected. Not that there's anything wrong with splashing out on dinner and a show after the past two years. Live acts — like Adele's just-announced residency at The Colosseum — are once again hot tickets, as is a table at chic new supper club Delilah , at the Wynn Las Vegas. Some things, thankfully, never change. — Paul Brady

28. Louisville, Kentucky

Your cowboy boots were made for walking the streets of Louisville. Nicknamed "The Bourbon City," an official gateway to Kentucky's bourbon trail, the city is expanding its bourbon footprint in 2022. In October, the Urban Bourbon Trail welcomed the first and only African American–owned distillery in the state, Brough Brothers . Meanwhile, its trailmate, Angel's Envy , will wrap its $8.2-million expansion project complete with a new event space and five tasting rooms in the spring. The city is most well known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby every spring at the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, and the Downs will open the first installment of its multi-year expansion plan, the Homestretch Club , just in time for the 2022 Derby. There, attendees will be able to enjoy the race with an all-new trackside lounge experience. — Hannah Streck

29. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a beautiful medley of cultures (Chinese, Indian, and Malay) and a diverse smattering of terrain: bustling cities with towering buildings, verdant rain forests with incredible wildlife, and idyllic islands with dreamy beaches. But all of this and more has been closed to the world for much of the pandemic. Now that the island of Langkawi is open via a travel bubble, with the rest of the country expected to follow suit in 2022, travelers can once again experience Malaysia's many gifts. Langkawi, a beach lover's paradise, blends unspoiled nature (UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park ) and unparalleled luxury ( Four Seasons Resort , Datai Langkawi ), while cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur draws visitors with its gleaming Petronas Towers, delicious hawker food stalls, and shopping. Then there's Borneo, complete with wildlife-packed jungles and a rich Indigenous culture, as well as Desaru Coast, a 3,900-acre area that's home to coveted resorts like the One&Only Desaru Coast , a tropical oasis that opened in early September 2020 (the brand's first in Asia). — Alisha Prakash

30. Maldives

The Maldives' 1,000+ islands sit in the Indian Ocean like a string of turquoise pearls. The tropical nirvana has 166 accommodation options, including the new Joali Being nature retreat, which leads guests on a transformative wellness journey. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives debuts in February with 80 beach and overwater villas on the Raa Atoll. Coming to the same atoll in May, also with 80 luxury villas, is Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa on a massive lagoon primed for snorkeling. The ever-innovative Soneva Fushi has a new experience that includes zip-lining to a six-course meal 30 feet about the sand. Along with Soneva Jani, they've debuted Soneva Soul , a new spa complex melding ancient and modern techniques. Other vacation favorites are unveiling new digs like the sleek, contemporary renovation of Naladhu Private Island and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , debuting in February. — Katie Lockhart

31. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is considered one of the sailing capitals of the world. It is home to the largest fleet of America's Cup 12 Meter yachts , most of which are available for charter. In May, the coastal town is welcoming a Sailing Museum that is sure to solidify that title. Over the past few years, a slew of hotel openings have closed a much-needed gap for luxury accommodations, including Hammett's Hotel , Brenton Hotel , and The Wayfinder Hotel . The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is debuting the property's highly anticipated transformation conceived by Dallas-based design collective Swoon — the lobby, dining room, and shared areas are now complete with guest rooms finishing early next year. Renowned beverage executive Maxwell Britten has joined the team as chief cocktail curator alongside an amazing chef who cooks up a selection of elevated pub-inspired dishes. And don't miss Giusto , at Hammett's Hotel, which serves up excellent Italian with a Rhode Island twist. — Scott Bay

32. Nile Cruise, Egypt

There is no trip that will convert you to a life of river cruising quite like a sail down (well, technically, up) the Nile. In fact, the world's first river cruises sailed in Egypt, a country designed around the central waterway, where it makes sense that the Nile would act as your home base. A typical Egyptian river cruise sets sail from Cairo to Luxor and then Aswan, with the occasional stop to visit an island temple along the way — complete with sights like the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and Queens, Nefertari's tomb, and the Temple of Kom Ombo. In 2022, there's more than one new river cruise to choose from, between Uniworld's newly launched S.S. Sphinx and AmaWaterways' Amadahlia , both of which sailed their inaugural voyages in fall 2021. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

In late 2021, Panama launched a tourism platform along with the coolest tagline in travel: " Live for More ." With a booming coffee scene and a renewed focus on its culture, history, and biodiversity , the Central American nation is ready for its moment in the spotlight. It's an attractive place for those looking to get out of resort mode and into a world open for exploration and adventure. Immersive environmental experiences abound here, including trekking through the rainforest on its suspended hanging bridges and walking to the top of the Volcán Barú, an active volcano with both Pacific and Atlantic Ocean views from the top. There is also abundant opportunity to learn from Panama's seven Indigenous communities, each of whom offer their own personalized experiences and are happy to share their craftsmanship and traditions. Panama offers plenty of luxury, too. In its capital city, check into the American Trade Hotel , centrally located in Panama's Casco Viejo district, a historic neighborhood which happens to also be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. — Stacey Leasca

34. Phuket, Thailand

Before the pandemic, Phuket was beautiful but crowded, full of beach bars and tourists chasing all-nighters. It's still full of energy and surrounded by the same pristine sea glass–colored water, but its luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves, from its high-end coffee shops to its cocktail bars. Hide from the world in paradise with a stay in one of the private pool residences at Trisara , featuring kitchens, a private chef, butler service, and breathtaking views over the sea, as well as access to the resort's PRU restaurant , which has earned both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star. Or book a stay at the brand-new V Villas Phuket , which offers a curated selection of 19 private-pool, 1-, 3-, and 4-bedroom villas. Later, party the night away in Phuket Old Town with inventive cocktails at Club No. 43 (think: rum with grilled pineapple juice and espuma), or settle in for a great dinner and a night of daring performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which just launched a weekly Saturday night show. — Alison Fox

35. Pico, Portugal

The islands of the Azores — a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean some 900 miles west of Lisbon — are more popular than ever, and for 2022, travelers will want to fix their eyes firmly on the second-largest isle: Pico, an alluring, otherworldly locale covered with black, volcanic rocks. Conquering Portugal's highest peak, the cloud-shrouded, 7,713-foot-high Mount Pico, used to be the island's main draw, but a recent uptick in hospitality infrastructure has allowed for more opportunity to partake of Pico's most important agricultural output: wine. Renowned Portuguese winemaker Antonio Maçanita just opened a new winery that comes with bookable design-forward apartments adjacent to the island's unique vineyards. On Pico, grapes are planted on volcanic terroir that are then protected from Atlantic winds with rock walls. Maçanita's Azores Wine Company 's mineral, sometimes slightly salty wines could be the perfect celebratory drink after a grueling hike.The crashing waves around Pico are beginning to seduce surfers, too. And there are also ample opportunities to watch for marine life thanks to 20 species of dolphins and whales (including humpbacks and orcas) that can be spotted in these waters. But if you'd rather eat what's in the water: Try lapas, a local shellfish delicacy best served grilled with butter and garlic and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Thankfully, getting to experience all of this has never been easier: Starting July 1, United Airlines will for the first time connect Newark to the island of São Miguel (the Azores' largest island), and from there, it's a quick hop over to Pico. Or you could always get there via direct flights from Lisbon or Porto with Tap Air Portugal's stopover program. — Chadner Navarro

36. Quebec, Canada

After over a year of tight pandemic restrictions, Canada reopened to American tourists in 2021, so now might finally be time to plan that trip to the Great White North, starting with the province of Quebec. From the charming, French-influenced cities of Montreal and Quebec City to the region's snow-capped mountains, there's something new to explore every season. In December 2021, the first Club Med mountain resort in Canada, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , opened, offering all-inclusive ski vacations just a short flight from several major U.S. cities. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering a foliage-packed autumn cruise from New York to Montreal in October. No matter what time of year you visit, Le Capitole Hotel in Quebec City and Humaniti Hotel Montreal are top picks for places to stay in the major cities. — Elizabeth Rhodes

37. Queensland, Australia

Australia's highly anticipated international border reopening will be well worth the wait, especially as more travelers seek nuanced cultural experiences and sustainable stays. The northeastern state has long been the gateway for visits to the rightly beloved Great Barrier Reef, and beginning in 2022, visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the ecosystem directly from the area's Traditional Land Owners and Indigenous guides during day trips from Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel . Aboriginal elders and Traditional Land Owners are also working with local operator Gudjuda Tours on a daylong excursion to tag and rescue one of the reef's most beloved creatures: sea turtles. Those who want to take a more extended trip to the Whitsunday Islands can look to Elysian Retreat , recently certified as the area's first fully solar-powered resort, or its carbon-negative sister property Pumpkin Island . Back on the mainland, within the verdant Daintree Rainforest UNESCO World Heritage Site, eco-luxury hideaway Silky Oaks Lodge will finally welcome guests back after its $15-million overhaul. — Sarah Bruning

38. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Two hours from L.A., the Santa Ynez Valley is rural, unassuming, and coming into its own. The region has grown grapes for decades and has even made a Hollywood cameo in the movie Sideways. The arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles' and travelers' radars. Start with a private olive oil tasting at Global Gardens and hard cider at Tin City Cider in Los Olivos. Follow with pizza pies at Full of Life Flatbread and vino at nearby female-owned A Tribute to Grace and Casa Dumetz . Detour to Firestone Walker 's outpost in Buellton for a few limited edition craft brews and finish with dishes such as roasted tomato and fennel risotto at the Ballard Inn's Gathering Table . Though it's technically just beyond the boundaries of the valley in Lompoc, The Hilt Estate , is too good to miss. And once it opens this year as an Auberge property, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern will make for the perfect base from which to explore it all. — Tanvi Chheda

39. São Paulo, Brazil

Known for its dynamic combination of luxury, design, and fashion influence, São Paulo is an international metropolitan hub of arts and culture. It's the largest city in South America, hosting an array of entertainment opportunities such as fabulous hotels, decadent restaurants, high-class museums, and iconic mid-century architecture. With airlines including American adding flights throughout Brazil in 2022 and a flourishing hospitality renaissance throughout the city, São Paulo is well prepared for its anticipated influx of new travelers. A must-visit destination for 2022 is the Rosewood São Paulo , located in the heart of São Paulo's Cidade Matarazzo and housed in a historic landmark building. Here, visitors will encounter 200-plus luxurious guest rooms, suites, and residences, plus six restaurants and bars and two pools. — Molly O'Brien

40. Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Georgia city is rightly famous for its atmospheric, moss-draped streets and squares, not to mention its hundreds of years of history. But lately Savannah has been boosted by creativity and innovation outside the sometimes frozen-in-amber Old Town, which means now is a particularly compelling time to visit. Make home base the brand-new Thompson Savannah , a slick 13-story tower with interiors by Studio 11 Design that anchors the still-developing Eastern Wharf neighborhood. Phase one of the 54-acre development, which aims to turn a once-industrial waterfront into a contemporary mixed-use destination, includes hundreds of apartments, fitness trails, access to the Savannah River, and multiple bars and restaurants, including Fleeting , a seasonally driven spot inside the Thompson. At the same time, Savannah's other major waterfront destination has also come into its own. The Plant Riverside District, a stone's throw from Old Town, marked its official grand opening in November 2021, putting a bow on a bustling JW Marriott hotel , countless restaurants and bars, and multiple live performance venues all along a rebuilt waterfront. Not that all the action is along the river: The ever-evolving Starland District, a short drive from Johnson Square, has its share of hangouts including Starland Yard , a food truck park that's also home to the excellent Pizzeria Vittoria Napoletana ; Two Tides Brewing Company , which pours hazy ales and delicious sours in a super-cool taproom; and Troupial , a Venezuelan cafe. You'll also want to pack Wildsam Savannah , a newly released field guide that helps visitors understand the layers of history (and the contemporary politics) that are fueling the latest renaissance in Savannah. — Paul Brady

41. Seattle, Washington

Few places offer both an urban and a natural escape in one destination — and the Emerald City might be one of the best. The city center is world-class with top hotel accommodations ( Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and Thompson Seattle ), locally focused fine dining, and countless cultural sites. Then, just minutes away from all of that is some of the most stunning outdoor recreation out there. Adding to the city's luster is the newly opened Lotte Hotel Seattle . The 189-room tower is bringing high design and refined service to the area. Charlotte , the hotel's restaurant on the 18th floor, serves up an inventive menu that is sure to become an all-time favorite dining experience. The landmark Fairmont Olympic Hotel recently completed a $25-million historic restoration of its public spaces, quickly becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in town. Plus, its buzzy new culinary showpiece will debut in the months to come. Before leaving Seattle, don't miss a meal at celebrated pasta specialist Brian Clevenger's new restaurant, Autumn . — Scott Bay

42. Sedona, Arizona

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

With tourism already surging thanks to the Instagram fame of attractions like Devil's Bridge, Sedona garnered even more of a following during the pandemic among cooped-up city dwellers enthralled by the destination's red rocks and energy vortexes. In 2022, set your sights on North America's first landscape hotel, Ambiente , home to 40 standalone accommodations (called "atriums"), most with private rooftop decks perfect for stargazing. Opening in May, the sustainability-focused retreat will offer on-site trailhead access — further immersing guests in the Sedona landscape while combating traffic along the city's main highway — and reactivate an ancient waterway to populate a stream running throughout the hotel. Experience Sedona's culinary clout right on property at Ambiente's restaurant, Forty1, housed in a refurbished airstream, or venture next door to Mariposa , the city's must-visit restaurant by chef Lisa Dahl, who pioneered fine dining in this town. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

43. Singapore

Singapore reopened to vaccinated American travelers in October 2021 with the introduction of the country's Vaccinated Travel Lane . Travelers can fly from the U.S. on Singapore Airlines' vaccine-mandatory flights ; the World's Best airline 26 years running launched Vaccinated Travel Lane flights this fall, and United Airlines plans to follow suit by January 2022. Even in the early stages of reopening to foreign travelers, the city-state is already unveiling new culinary ventures. Recently, chef Julien Royer, behind three-Michelin-star Odette, opened Claudine , and Raffles Singapore unveiled Osteria BBR by Alain Ducasse, while Marina Bay Sands plans to debut chef Tetsuya Wakuda's second restaurant within the hotel in the new year. Of course, there's just as much flavor to be found at Singapore's famed hawker centers, now on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. As tourists return to Singapore, new cultural attractions follow — from the return of Singapore Art Week, beginning Jan. 14, to the recent unveiling of SkyHelix Sentosa , an open-air ride towering 300 feet above sea level, for anyone still in need of thrills after a 17-hour flight over the Pacific. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

44. Southwest Michigan

Beaches with ocean-like views were once the main draw to Michigan's southwest coast, but new high-style accommodations and hyper-local experiences are giving us more reasons to go. Where to stay with so many options? Consider the cool new motel-turned-boutique Lake Shore Resort in Saugatuck; The Fields glamping retreat with new spa tents in South Haven; the revamped, modern Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo; or anywhere along the coast with high-touch Bluefish Vacation Rentals , which has killer lakefront homes now stocked with handmade local goods. Hop on the new pedestrian/bike trail in Union Pier, and definitely shop two new woman-owned standouts: the beautifully curated Haven and Ariane Prewitt's AP Cottage, scheduled to open this spring. Women are showing off the culinary scene, too, with everything from a special saison ale — winner of the 2021 Great American Beer Festival — at woman-owned Waypost Brewing Co. , to new herb-inspired cocktails at James Beard-winning chef Melissa Corey's Penny Royal Café & Provisions , to James Beard nominee Abra Beherns' Granor Farm , where dinners return this year in a new glass-enclosed barn. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

45. St. Moritz, Switzerland

If you're on the hunt for glitz, glamour, and powder for days, look no further than St. Moritz, Switzerland. The Alpine ski town has long been considered the birthplace of winter vacationing. Tourists first flocked to the mountain town in 1864 , when hotelier Johannes Badrutt took a few British travelers to the community, promising them bluebird days all winter. It wasn't long until others learned about this hidden winter oasis. Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts flocked to the mountain, which has now hosted the Winter Olympic Games not once, but twice. It's an ideal place for ski bunnies too, thanks to its luxury shopping, and its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants . This winter, head to St. Moritz for its fantastic events like White Surf (Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 2022), an international horse race that takes place across the frozen Lake St. Moritz, and the Snow Polo World Cup (Jan. 28-30, 2022), which happens to be the world's only high-goal tournament on snow. Book a stay at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel , which officially reopened on Dec. 3 for the 2021/2022 season and offers guests the chance to try their hand at high-octane winter sports like skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, and even private helicopter tours to the peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palü. — Stacey Leasca

46. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida

The beaches of St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and even the world , but there's more to this destination than white sand, pristine waters, and 361 days of sunshine per year. St. Pete/Clearwater offers more than 30 museums and galleries featuring world-renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso, as well as the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside of Spain. One could say brewing the perfect beer is also an artform that St. Pete/Clearwater has mastered, with its trail of 35+ locally owned craft breweries. Playfully nicknamed the " Gulp Coast ," complete your experience with a digital passport that tracks your beer-sampling progress. These year-round offerings mean you can visit any time, but head over in June 2022 to revel in the 20th anniversary of St. Pete Pride , the largest Pride event in Florida, hosting events for everyone from friends and families to couples and solo travelers. — Jessica Poitevien

47. Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is one of Mexico's pueblo mágicos, or "magic towns," and locals are working to retain its history and culture while embracing the steady stream of travelers who have begun venturing an hour north of Cabo San Lucas to discover its charm. The area saw a handful of new boutique resorts pop up in 2021 that provide luxury amenities while keeping the rugged land and local flora the centerpiece. Wellness-focused Paradero describes itself as a "landscaping project" that just so happens to have luxurious suites, and El Perdido , an all-villa resort less than five miles south, provides all-terrain vehicles so visitors can get to Los Cerritos beach, the local surf break of choice. Oceanfront Rancho Pescadero 's multimillion-dollar transformation will be complete in the spring. Bookings for its oceanfront villas and penthouse rooms — some with private rooftops and plunge pools — open in January. Todos Santos has fully embraced farm-to-table dining, with Javier Plascencia's orchard-adjacent Jazamango leading the way, and Santa Terra , a cosmopolitan oyster bar meets arts and entertainment venue concept, is in the process of adding multiple bars and restaurants, plus a glamping site and amphitheater, according to its developer, "without chopping down a single tree." — Nina Ruggiero

48. Udaipur, India

After an extremely challenging 20-month closure, India reopened to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 15, 2021. Those looking toward South Asia in the new year, perhaps to see the Taj Mahal in Agra or hit the Goan beaches, should make sure Udaipur is on the itinerary. The city of lakes in southern Rajasthan is thought of as the most romantic Indian destination (even called the "Venice of the East") — but it's not just for honeymooners. From the vibrance of Hathi Pol bazaar and Shilpgram , an artisanal compound on the outskirts of the city with a festival set to return on Jan. 22, to the serenity of Lake Pichola, the artificial lake made in the 14th century, Udaipur is a city where you can fully immerse in Rajasthani culture. A hub of Indian luxury, Udaipur is now home to the country's first Raffles hotel, which opened in October. This private island hotel on Udai Sagar Lake is accessible only by boat — something of a trademark for the over-the-top hotels of Udaipur. Meant to be a flagship hotel in the Raffles portfolio, complete with brand staples (think: bars, both Long and Writers), 101 lavish suites, Rasoi cooking school, and lakeside open-air restaurant Belvedere Point. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

49. Wales, United Kingdom

The only path in the world to follow the whole of a country's coastline, the Wales Coastal Path celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Walking its 870 miles would take three months, but its most spectacular stretches can be seen in one visit — and in style. St David's in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, is Britain's smallest city with a mere population of 1,600 and is home to a Medieval cathedral , a luxury hotel inside Roch Castle , some excellent pubs, and the upscale St David's Gin & Kitchen . Hiking paths with unbeatable coastal vistas are within easy reach (try the St David's Head loop ) and pass neolithic tombs and hillforts. — Jamie Carter

50. Yucatán, Mexico

Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, has emerged as one of Mexico's most popular cities thanks to its lively restaurant scene, a busy calendar of cultural events, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Increasingly, however, travelers are venturing beyond the city to explore the state's unspoiled nature reserves, ancient Maya sites, and sprawling haciendas — a number now converted into hotels. Among the destinations that are drawing travelers to Yucatán are El Cuyo, a quiet beach town that was long a closely guarded secret of windsurfers. Now visitors can also enjoy gourmet Mexican fare at the El Chile Gordo restaurant and boho-chic lodgings at the new Casa Mate . In Espita, a charming colonial town near Valladolid, is the Casona los Cedros hotel which opened in summer 2021. Sisal, a historic port in the western part of the state, has attracted new interest since being named a Pueblo Mágico at the end of 2020. A new highway completed in April now connects Sisal to Hunucmá (and then beyond to Mérida) making it easier for beachcombers to visit, and perhaps spend the night at the cool Club de Patos . — John Newton

51. Bonus: Space

This was a monumental year for human spaceflight — not only did NASA and SpaceX achieve a regular cadence of astronaut launches for the first time since the Space Shuttle was retired in 2011, but space tourism has also lifted off in a major way, making space a top destination to visit in 2022. And it's a realistic trip, too, so long as you have the budget for it. Both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking passengers to space on short suborbital hops this year, and each company plans to ramp up those flights in 2022 — Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 bookings. The price for a quick jaunt to space? A few hundred thousand dollars . If you have an even bigger budget (say, a couple hundred million dollars), you could charter your own orbital flight in a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, as did entrepreneur Jared Issacman with his Inspiration4 mission in September. There are also tourism trips to the International Space Station in the works; Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa launches on his multi-day journey in December, courtesy of space travel agency Space Adventures and Russia's Roscosmos space agency, which plans to take even more " citizen space explorers " to the orbiting laboratory in the near future. Of course, not everyone has pockets deep enough to cover space travel, but more affordable journeys are on the horizon. Startup Space Perspective plans to launch high-altitude balloon rides to the edge of space in 2024 , for the relatively low price of $125,000. Potential dealbreaker, though — the balloons don't actually reach space, maxing out at 100,000 feet in altitude, while space is considered to begin somewhere between 264,000 feet (50 miles) and 327,360 feet (62 miles). But hey, at least there's a bar on board. — Stefanie Waldek

More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - $79.79
Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
Delhi, India - $98.05
Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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18 Best Cheap Places to Travel in December
Charlotte, North Carolina. 18. Puerto Rico. Map of Cheap Places to Travel in December. 1. Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas at sunset. Step into the action with a trip to Las Vegas. Known for its unique atmosphere and non-stop buzz, this desert city takes you from New York to Paris, all in one strip.
26 Cheap destinations in 2023 with great weather in December
Montego Bay, Jamaica. December avg high: 85°F/29°C. December avg low: 73°F/23°C. December avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm. As with other Caribbean resort destinations, the weather in Montego Bay is perfect in December, and the first half of the month is still cheap for flights and resort prices.
18 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2022 Around the World
To determine the most wallet-friendly destinations, Kayak analyzed the searches for flights from Nov. 20, 2020, through Nov. 19, 2021, for travel between Jan. 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022.
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Martinique. #14 in Best Cheap Winter Vacations. Thanks to its location in the Caribbean Sea, Martinique offers ideal weather for travelers seeking a warm respite from chilly winters. Temperatures ...
Cheapest Winter Destinations & Flight Deals under $500
Mexico. Puerto Rico. Paris. Download the app to find cheap flights. to these affordable destinations. 1. Mexico. Wherever you're located across the continental United States, Mexico is a short, cheap flight away, making it one the easiest and cheapest winter vacation destinations.
10 Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget
3. Los Angeles, CA. Another city famed for its near-perfect weather all year round, Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities and, surprisingly, one of the best places to travel in December on a budget. Prices of domestic flights to LA are at the lower end of the scale in December, as are most of the hotels.
20 Cheap Warm-Weather Winter Destinations For December
Plus, with temperatures ranging between 73 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit, December provides a perfect balmy backdrop. A ballpark figure for flight costs ranges from $375 to $700 for a roundtrip. Hotel accommodations — varying from luxury resorts to quaint inns — can average around $124-$326 per night. 2. Cancun, Mexico.
11 Best Places to Travel in December 2023
Newport Beach, California. Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure. With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the ...
22 Cheap Destinations to Visit in 2022
Atlanta to Muscat for $772. Chicago to Muscat for $2,843 in business class. 5. Greenland. Since Icelandair acquired Air Iceland in 2021, travelers can now book single-ticket itineraries from the USA to Greenland (albeit with a stopover in Reykjavik) making it easier to visit Greenland independently.
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St. Kitts throws a bonafide Carnival, beginning at the end of November and lasting through a New Year's Day Parade, while on December 26—AKA Boxing Day— Turks and Caicos has Maskanoo, a ...
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At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state - perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis. Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice.
25 Best Destinations to Travel in December
25 Best Destinations to Travel in December. By Lissa Poirot, updated on November 16, 2022. Getty. Traveling in December can be rewarding in multiple ways. Between Thanksgiving and New Year's, many find themselves too busy to hop on a plane or hit the road beyond visiting family. But those who plan ahead will often find places less crowded with ...
Cheap Places to Travel in December
The Impact of Currency Fluctuations on Travel Budgets. Top Cheap Destinations to Visit in December. Asia: Where Your Wallet Can Afford to Wander. Vietnam: The Land of Pho and Fiscal Joy. India: A Symphony of Savings. Latin America: Sun, Salsa, and Savings. Mexico: A Fiesta of Frugality.
Exclusive:10 Cheap Places to Travel in December
From driving the historic Route 66 to soaking up the sun on Palm Beach island, here are 10 cheap places to visit in December in the USA. n the warm waters in an underrated beach town off Florida's Gulf Coast to getting immersed in Civil War history in southeast Tennessee, a getaway in December doesn't have to break the bank.
32 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024
12. Hoi An, Vietnam. Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to travel to and Hoi An comes in as a highly affordable and popular spot within the country to visit. As a holiday destination with beaches, the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and stunning countryside, it's a popular tourist destination for a good reason!
The best places to visit in December
Shokawa Gorge in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. WATARU SATO/GETTY IMAGES. In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle.
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5 Cheap Places To Travel In December 2022. You'll find the DESTINATION, QUICK WEATHER RECAP & A SPECIAL TIP to make this getaway even cheaper at the end of the text.
The 12 Best Places to Travel in December
Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach, a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8-10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds.The lineup ...
The Cheapest Flight Deals for a Trip in 2022
May in Las Vegas. Before that peak summer heat grips the desert, you should take your spring trip to Las Vegas (LAS). Cheap domestic flights are plentiful throughout 2022, but this deal we sent to Premium subscribers a few weeks ago featured flights to Sin City as low as $76 roundtrip! In fact, a handful of cities featured fares below $100.
10 Cheap Worldwide Travel Destinations To Consider for 2022
After sitting at home in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and dipping our toes back into travel in 2021, maybe it's time to think about making a bigger travel splash in 2022. And a great,...
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The spring season here is very busy, but December is typically less so. Popular things to do in Tulum include seeing the Mayan ruins, scuba diving and snorkeling, Playa Paraiso for a beach day, and the LabnaHa Cenotes & Eco Park for an unexpected adventure. Credit: Cartagena, Colombia by bigstock.com.
Cheap Flights in December FAQs
Many people travel over the holidays to reach family, head for the sun, or escape the hustle and bustle. As it's a busy time of year, December flight prices tend to go up in the days around Christmas. But if you're flexible with flight and trip duration, and you book well in advance, you can usually bag a brilliant deal.
50 World's Best Places to Travel in 2022
Here are the best places to travel right now and in 2022 for summer, spring, winter, or fall vacations. Our list of best vacation spots includes destinations in Hawaii, California, Italy, the UK ...
15 Cheapest Places To Travel In 2024
A new travel report from the U.K.'s Post Office—a British-based mail and financial services company—has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the ...

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